Happy Nowruz: Persian New Year

This weekend we celebrated Nowruz, the Persian New Year.  Our good friend is Persian.  His wife thought this would be a great way for us to kick off spring while honoring her husband and his family’s traditions. Nowruz means “new day” in Farsi.  The afternoon started on the rooftop where we enjoyed cocktails, traditional Persian appetizers, and a wonderful view.  We snacked on pistachios, grapes, feta, crackers, cucumbers, and hummus.  Once the cocktail hour was over we headed downstairs to eat.  We were greeted with a lovely long table adorned with tulips and other gorgeous spring flowers.   

Just next to the table was the ceremonial Haftsin (the seven s) table. Traditionally, families gather around this ceremonial table that symbolizes success and happiness in the new year.  

We feasted on lamb, rice, chicken, roasted vegetables, feta, and fried rice.  We drank Shiraz wine as my friend's family originally came from Shiraz.  Following dinner we enjoyed pistachio ice cream with pomegranate seeds and pistachios.  The combination of flavors was wonderful. 

I loved being outside and enjoying spring with our close friends.  I also loved learning more about Nowruz. It’s nice to take some time out to focus on our blessings and the friends for which we are so thankful.