The Iranian new year is around the corner; it starts with the Spring Equinox. This year, that happens exactly at 9:55:35 PM on Monday March the 20th, Iran Standard Time (GMT +3 1/2 hours) . The celebrations go on for 13 days, ending with a big national picnic when people go out in order to shake off the bad luck of the 13th day of the new year.
The word Norooz meaning New Day, signifies a time of celebration for Iranians. It occurs exactly on the Spring Equinox. This occasion has been renowned in one form or another by all the major cultures of ancient Mesopotamia. Sumerians, 3000 BC, Babylonians, the ancient kingdom of Elam in Southern Persia and Akaddians in the second millennium BC, all celebrated this festival.
A Google search on the key word "Norooz" (also spelled "Nowrooz") will reveal more information for those who are interested in details about its history and the traditions concerning the celebrations. It has to be mentioned that except in Iran, Norooz is also celebrated in Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikestan and some other Central Asian countries, as well as by the Parsis (Persians) in India.
Full Version: The Iranian new year
QUOTE(zephyr @ Mar 18 2006, 10:11 AM) [snapback]1110077[/snapback]
The Iranian new year is around the corner; it starts with the Spring Equinox. This year, that happens exactly at 9:55:35 PM on Monday March the 20th, Iran Standard Time (GMT +3 1/2 hours) . The celebrations go on for 13 days, ending with a big national picnic when people go out in order to shake off the bad luck of the 13th day of the new year.
The word Norooz meaning New Day, signifies a time of celebration for Iranians. It occurs exactly on the Spring Equinox. This occasion has been renowned in one form or another by all the major cultures of ancient Mesopotamia. Sumerians, 3000 BC, Babylonians, the ancient kingdom of Elam in Southern Persia and Akaddians in the second millennium BC, all celebrated this festival.
A Google search on the key word "Norooz" (also spelled "Nowrooz") will reveal more information for those who are interested in details about its history and the traditions concerning the celebrations. It has to be mentioned that except in Iran, Norooz is also celebrated in Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikestan and some other Central Asian countries, as well as by the Parsis (Persians) in India.
I bet it turns out to be a Blast!!
QUOTE(HurtingSpirit @ Mar 18 2006, 09:08 PM) [snapback]1110554[/snapback]
I bet it turns out to be a Blast!!
Hopefully not a nuclear one
Have a Happy New Year!!! 
Thank you Dowdy! 
Well you learn something new every day.
Happy New year to the people of Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikestan and all the other peoples who celebrate Norooz!
Happy New year to the people of Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikestan and all the other peoples who celebrate Norooz!
Bet it goes off with a bang 
Happy New Year !!!
Edit:
Edit:
This is a "lo-fi" version of our main content. To view the full version with more information, formatting and images, please click here.