Happy New Year in March?

Norouz which means “a new day” is the most important holiday in Iran. Each year depending on the astronomical vernal equinox, (this usually occurs on March 21) Persians all around the world celebrate the New year. In the west we consider this day as the first day of spring. This beautiful occasion is also celebrated in many other countries because of the great influence of the Persian empire.

Instead of a Christmas tree we have what we call “haft seen”. This is a table that families gather around waiting for the exact moment spring “arrives”. The “haft seen table” consists of seven specific items starting with the letter “s” in farsi (the Persian language). Every item on the “haft seen” has a special symbolic meaning.

So here are the items:

• Serkeh – vinegar – symbolizes age and patience

• Sib – apples – symbolizes beauty and health

• Sabzeh – wheat sprouts growing in a dish – symbolizes rebirth

• Sekkeh – coins – represents wealth

• Senjed – dried fruit of oleaster trees – symbolizes love

• Sir – garlic – symbolizes medicine

Norouz always reminds me of my childhood. I remember really looking forward to it each year. But mostly because all my friends already had gotten their presents for Christmas three months earlier, and finally it was my turn. I remember that it was difficult for me, after Christmas break everybody was showing what they had gotten for Christmas, except me...

My mum is in some ways a very traditional Persian, so when I was younger she didn't want us to celebrate Christmas. Maybe you can understand my agony? being a kid, and walking around seeing all the beautiful decorations. But not being able to join in the party... After years of nagging and complaining, my mother finally caved. Oh joy, happy days, i could join the party!

The thing is that being able to celebrate Christmas, made me feel more normal. Instead of always being different. Made me feel more like my friends. Not having to explain to other 10 year old's why i don't get my present until the end of March, is probably the best present my mum ever gave me.

Over and out people!