United Nations News Centre

Nowruz plays a significant role in strengthening ties based on mutual respect and the ideals of peace and good neighbourliness. Its traditions and rituals reflect the cultural and ancient customs of the civilizations of the East and West. Today, Nowruz is marked by social visits with friends and family, musical celebrations and traditional meals. Pictured, a girl out with her family in Iraq’s Kurdistan region. UNAMI/D. Penkova

Given its cultural importance, Nowruz was inscribed in 2009 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In their annual messages, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova emphasize the spirit of reconciliation and solidarity fostered in Nowruz. In Iraq’s Kurdistan region, the humanitarian and economic crises are subduing celebrations, unlike in 2014, pictured. UNAMI/D. Penkova

One of the themes of Nowruz is transformation. On the last Tuesday night before Nowruz, Iranians celebrate “Chaharshanbeh Souri” or Wednesday Eve. People leap over the flames, shouting: Sorkhi-ye to az man; Zardi-ye man az to or Give me your beautiful red colour and take my yellow sickness. UNIC Tehran/Lida Bonakdar

The nights are lit up with fireworks and sparklers. Some people believe in putting coal, salt and a small coin – customary of bad luck, the evil eye and poverty, respectively – into a container and breaking it on their rooftops for good luck. UNIC Tehran/Sadeq Isfahani

Nowruz celebrations last about two weeks. The festivities are linked to the affirmation of life in harmony with nature. In Kabul, Afghanistan, this vendor holds “sabzeh,” which is usually wheat, barley or lentil sprouts, symbolizing the environment, happiness and rebirth. UNAMA/Fardin Waezi

At homes, families set up decorative tables called Haft-Sin, such as this one at an event at the UN. The Haft-Sin is linked to the blossoming and germinating of spring, and each of the seven items displayed starts with the letter “S” in the Persian alphabet. This Haft-Sin was created by the Permanent Missions of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, India, Iraq, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. UN Photo/Loey Felipe

Colored eggs are often added as decorations to the Haft-Sin. Some families abide with a strict rule of having an odd number of eggs, others lay one out for each family member. Above, a young boy is helping his family in Iran prepare for their Haft-Sin. UNIC Tehran/Mehrnaz Shapouri

Goldfish have become a popular addition to the Haft-Sin, despite efforts by animal advocates to curb their use. Supporters say a goldfish in a bowl represents life; opponents say the goldfish are neglected after the holidays and die, going against the traditions of Nowruz which symbolize rebirth of nature. UNIC Tehran/Mehrnaz Shapouri

In Iran, the Tajrish Square in Iran is one of the busiest areas at this time of year. From last minute shoppers to families heading on vacation, the streets are buzzing with activity. UNDP/Gary Lewis

In Afghanistan, bakeries prepare a special type of cookie, called “Kulcha-e Nowrozi,” which is only baked for Nowruz. Other special dishes include “Haft Mewa,” a fruit salad made from seven different dried fruits, and “Samanak” made by women in a special ceremony that includes singing. UNAMA/Fardin Waezi

On the 13th day of the celebrations, many people spend the day outside with family and friends. It is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and also to ward away evil associated with the number 13. UNIC Tehran/Mehmaz Shapouri