New Year in Iran: Norouz

On the first day of Norouz, Iranian families gather around the Haft Sin, or “Seven S’s” table. Families take pride in the beautiful arrangement of seven items that start with the sound of S in Persian. They symbolize the hopes for a successful and happy new year.

In Iran, the old year goes out with a bang. Children run through the streets. They clang on pots and pans. Knocking on the neighbor’s doors, they ask for sweets. This tradition is called qashogh-zany or “spoon beating.

As the spring approaches, fires bid good-bye to the old year in a tradition known as Chaher Shanbeh Suri. Families gather around small fires in the streets and alleys. They jump over the flames singing traditional songs and celebrating the victory of light over darkness.

The Haft Sin Table

Iranians welcome spring with sparkling clean houses and a new set of clothes. On their Haft Sin table, families include the traditional seven items . Many families also include a copy of the Koran, the holy book of Islam. A bowl of orange goldfish brings good luck. and

Candles which means light for the new year.

Painted eggs symbolize new life.

Garlic means protection from illness and evil.

Vinegar means patience


Coins bring prosperity.

Sweet pudding shows sweetness of life

Apples are beauty and health in life