A cultural observance on the spring equinox celebrating the Persian New Year and the first day of spring, marking renewal of nature with rituals promoting peace, solidarity, reconciliation, and cultural diversity among over 300 million people.
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the
Holiday Calendar Team
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the International Day of Nowruz through resolution A/RES/64/253 adopted on February 23, 2010. The draft resolution was introduced by multiple member states where Nowruz is widely celebrated, following UNESCO's inscription of Nowruz as intangible cultural heritage in 2009.
March 21 marks a special day for over 300 million people around the world – it's International Day of Nowruz! This ancient holiday has been celebrated for over 3,000 years and is regarded as the beginning of the new year in many cultures. Nowruz, which translates to "new day", symbolizes rebirth, renewal, and the arrival of spring. It is a time for families and friends to come together, share traditional meals, and participate in joyful festivities. So get ready to join in on the celebrations and embrace the spirit of Nowruz!
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WHY THIS DAY MATTERS
Nowruz is celebrated not only in Iran, but also in several other countries, including Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. It showcases the rich cultural heritage and diversity of these nations and brings people together in celebration.
Nowruz, which translates to "new day," marks the beginning of spring and celebrates the rebirth and renewal of nature. It's a joyous time when people come together to start fresh and look forward to the year ahead.
Nowruz is a time for gatherings and feasting with loved ones. Families come together to enjoy traditional dishes, exchange gifts, and participate in ancient rituals like jumping over bonfires for good luck and prosperity.
A cultural observance on the vernal equinox celebrating the Persian New Year, the beginning of spring, renewal, and the Zoroastrian tradition of the triumph of good over evil.
A cultural observance on the spring equinox celebrating the arrival of spring, the renewal of nature, and the Persian New Year.
A cultural observance on March 22 celebrating the Persian New Year, the arrival of spring, renewal of nature, and unity among the peoples of Central Asia.
A religious observance marking the Bahá'í New Year on the vernal equinox, symbolizing spiritual renewal and the arrival of spring as the first day of the Badí' calendar.
