Today is Norouz or “New Day” where we celebrate the Iranian New Year.  A time to start fresh, create new goals, feel grateful etc. I always felt that this was a more appropriate time to celebrate the new year; when Spring was beginning.

Although each Norouz represents a new year.. there are some memories and traditions that have never changed for me. So I thought it would be appropriate to share with you my Top 5 Norouz Memories. These are in no particular order… I just thought to myself “Norouz” and these came to mind first. 

When I think about Norouz…

1. I remember waking up in the middle of the night, or coming home early, or just sleeping really late… No matter what time of the day it officially becomes Spring, my family gathers together and sits around the Haft-seen at that exact time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Believe me, growing up, I didn’t always enjoy a 4 am celebration but it has become tradition. And when it is tradition, I don’t question it.

2. I remember the smell of the Sonbol (Hyacinth) flower. Whenever I walk into the house, I smell it. Then I know that Norouz is near. Just the smell alone puts me in a good mood as I look forward to new growth in the new year.

 

 

 

 

3. I remember being with family. Whether we are just sitting together and talking about the past year or  laughing and dancing, this has always been the biggest family celebration for us. The clock strikes and we hug and kiss each other while we wish eachother a happy, healthy and prosperous new year. Norouz and family…I can’t have one without the other.

4. I remember my dad reading excerpts from the Koran. We are actually not a very religious family. But during this holiday, my dad takes the opportunity to read pieces of the koran to us, translating along the way. Even though I could not understand some of it, despite hearing it many times now, I know it is important to listen and try to grasp the concepts.

5. I remember eating plenty of sweets. Tradition has always been that once the clock strikes and we wish each other a happy new year next on priority is to eat! We pour the chai, have some sweets, and sit together stuffing our faces. I can’t object, who doesn’t want some of this:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Being born in America, gives me the nice opportunity to celebrate two new year’s. Despite this, for the reasons above, and many more… I have always felt more connected to our own Norouz and I hope to pass on these traditions.

Wishing everyone a very happy, healthy and successful new year ahead!