Event details
When: Saturday 21 March 2026 from 5:30pm to 9:30pm
Where: Merrylands Roads, Merrylands
Program / activities
- Entertainment – Visit the main stage to view cultural performances that showcase the many communities who celebrate Nowruz in Cumberland.
- Eat and Drink – Visit the on-street restaurants for traditional banquets and the fusion-food trucks and stalls available for one night only.
- Haft Sin Table – Visit the community corner to learn more about Nowruz, connect with local community groups, and view a traditional haft sin table arrangement.
The meaning of Nowruz
Nowruz marks the first day of spring and is celebrated on the day of the astronomical vernal equinox, which usually occurs annually on March 20.
Nowruz has been celebrated for more than 3,000 years by cultures around the world with significance to Persian culture, including Iran, Iraq, India, Afghanistan, and parts of Central Asia. The origin of Nowruz is rooted in Zoroastrianism, an ancient Persian religion that predates both Christianity and Islam.
The event is celebrated by millions who observe the holiday by doing a deep clean of their homes, celebrate a season of new life, and wishing one another good luck in the year ahead. Traditionally, celebrations were held for 13 days, to reflect on the past and set intentions for the year ahead.
Key information
Public Transport
What is the best way to get to this event?
We recommend catching the train to Merrylands as parking is limited.
What is the nearest train station/bus stop to this event?
Merrylands Train Station is about a 2-minute walk to the event.
Parking
Where can I park?
Parking is available in surrounding streets. Please observe parking signs and avoid parking on resident driveways to avoid any infringements.
Is there disabled parking and access at this event?
This event aims to be accessibly friendly with wheelchair access, accessible bathrooms and accessible parking. For any accessibility requests, please email events@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Accessibility
Is there disabled parking and access at this event?
This event aims to be accessibly friendly with wheelchair access, accessible bathrooms and accessible parking.
For any accessibility requests, please email events@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Road Closures
Will there be any road closures in place for this event?
A road closure will be in place on Merrylands Road between Addlestone Road and Memorial Avenue from 7am on Saturday, 21 March 2026. The road will open at 1am on Sunday, 22 March 2025.
Frequently asked questions
Can we bring our own food?
You can bring your own food but why would you? There will be plenty of tasty and affordable food options available from local restaurants and on-street food vendors.
Are there Vegan/Vegetarian/Gluten Free food options?
Participating food vendors cater for various dietary needs. Please check with the food vendor if you are unsure.
Can we bring alcohol?
Merrylands Road is an alcohol-free zone and public space. Any alcohol brought onsite will be confiscated by the police.
Can I smoke or vape at the event?
We don’t encourage smoking or vaping. Please ensure these activities are carried out away from food vendors.
Can I bring a shade shelter/marquee?
For safety reasons you are unable to bring your own shade shelter/marquee to this event.
Is this event free?
This event is free to attend, and no tickets or registration is required.
Is this event 18+? Is this a family friendly event?
This event is a family friendly event.
What items are prohibited?
- Airhorns and silly string
- Alcohol
- Clothing that is Suburb or Gang related
- Glass
- Fireworks, flares or explosives
- Illegal substances
- Poles, sticks and banners/flags.
- Weapons or knives
Is this event pet friendly?
Pets are welcome to Merrylands Road. As this is a public space, please ensure your pet is on a lead.
What happens if it rains on the day?
In the event of adverse weather, Council may choose to cancel or postpone the event. Notification will be provided via Council’s social media channels. If you wish to confirm the events status, please call Council’s Events Team on 02 8757 9020.
Can I be a Stallholder?
Council runs an Expression of Interest period for vendors per event. Applications have closed.
Is there ATMs available?
ATMs are available in various shops on Merrylands Road, at Stocklands Shopping Centre and surrounding Service Stations. All vendors accept cashless payments.
Will there be fireworks at this event?
There are no fireworks at this event.
What happens to lost property?
Any lost property handed to security or event staff during the event will be kept at the Event Site Office. Items not collected during the event will be taken back to Council’s Administration Building if not collected before the event conclusion.
