Novruz Celebration on Library Plaza
March 29, 2024
Thank you to graduate students Adam Laten Willson and Bita Takrimi for organizing a beautiful Novruz celebration on the Library Plaza with the help of the Kyrgyz Community Center! Also see the writeup in The Daily Northwestern.
Novruz, an ancient holiday celebrated across Central Asia, marks the arrival of spring and the start of the new year. Derived from the Persian phrase "New Day," it holds deep cultural significance for communities in countries such as Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. Preparations for Novruz typically begin weeks in advance, with families engaging in activities such as spring cleaning, purchasing new clothes, and cooking traditional dishes. The holiday itself spans several days and involves a variety of customs and rituals. One central tradition is the Haft Seen table, which is adorned with seven symbolic items representing various aspects of life, such as prosperity, health, and abundance. Throughout Novruz, people engage in activities like jumping over bonfires, exchanging gifts and sweets, and participating in colorful street parades featuring music and dance. The holiday serves as a cultural cornerstone, fostering a sense of unity and shared heritage among Central Asian communities.