Persian New Year, also known as Nowruz, is a celebration marking the first day of spring and the beginning of the year in the Iranian calendar, typically occuring in March. It is an ancient tradition that dates back over 3,000 years, deeply rooted in Zoroastrianism and celebrated across several countries in the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Caucasus.
Nowruz represents themes of renewal, rebirth, and the triumph of light over darkness. It symbolizes the rejuvenation of nature as the seasons change, and it encourages personal renewal, optimism, and the clearing of past burdens. The celebration involves various rituals, including cleaning and decorating homes, preparing special foods, and performing symbolic acts like jumping over bonfires to purify oneself.
Persian-American artists, musicians, singers, dancers and traditional players will assemble to ring in the Persian New Year (Nowruz) on March 16, 2025 at the Hilton Washington Dulles Airport, in Herndon, VA. Combined with more than 60 vendors offering traditional foods, jewelry, crafts, books and other traditional products, the Nowruz Festival will offer a family-friendly venue for the celebration.
Following 3,000 years of customs and traditions, the colorful Nowruz Festival — the Persian New Year celebration — will be held on Sunday, March 16, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. This year's festival, with more than 60 booth vendors, is free and will be held indoor & outdoor at Hilton Dulles International, VA. This free event attracts thousands of visitors who come for the music, dance, dramatic performances, shopping at the Bazaar, and costumed characters roaming the festival.
