Experience a night of vibrant celebrations with traditional music, performances and dancers at Cumberland Council’s Nowruz event on Saturday 23 March.
The Nowruz community event which will be taking over the streets of Merrylands between Treves Street and Memorial Avenue, is a celebration that marks the start of spring on the astronomical vernal equinox.
Cumberland Mayor Lisa Lake invites the community to come along, experience the spirit of Nowruz and embrace and celebrate our cultural diversity.
"Nowruz, which means ‘New Day’ is an important time for our community. It represents a time of renewal, growth and the triumph of light over darkness”, said Mayor Lake.
“Nowruz is not only a time for families to come together for festive meals but also an opportunity for reflection, forgiveness and reconciliation. It’s a time to embrace the values of peace, unity, diversity and foster a sense of harmony among friends and family.”
Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper wished everyone celebrating across NSW a Nowruz Mubarak.
“Nowruz celebrates the values of solidarity, peace and respect among families and friends,” Minister Kamper said.
“We share in the rich tapestry, that makes us one of the most successful multicultural states in the world.”
A highlight at the event will be the cultural tradition of a haft-sin table, which will feature seven food items known as the seven 'S' foods. Each starts with the Persian letter "sin" and symbolises renewal and the blossoming of spring.
These items, which typically include sprouts, apples, garlic, vinegar, sumac, coins and a sweet pudding called Samanu. Other items around the table can include eggs, a goldfish, mirror and candles. These items hold specific meanings associated with health, prosperity and the passage of time.
The evening will also feature a line-up of live entertainment with live music, performances and dancers.
There will also be a range of engaging art and cultural activities including traditional Afghan beading, handmade jewellery, henna tattoos and face painting.
To find out more information about Council’s Nowruz event, visit: https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/nowruz
About Nowruz
Nowruz, meaning "New Day" in Persian, marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of the Persian New Year. Celebrated for over 3,000 years, Nowruz has deep cultural and historical roots in various communities, particularly in the Middle East, Central Asia and parts of Southeast Europe.
Proudly funded by the NSW Government in association with Cumberland City Council
