Nowruz, meaning “new day” in Persian, is the vibrant celebration of the Persian New Year, marking the beginning of spring. In 2025, Nowruz occurs precisely at the time of the vernal equinox on Thursday, March 20. Millions around the globe eagerly await this moment, which symbolises renewal, hope, and prosperity.
When is Nowruz Celebrated in 2025?
Nowruz coincides exactly with the vernal equinox—the astronomical event when day and night are of approximately equal length across the world. The precise timing varies based on each city’s local time zone. Below is a detailed table indicating the exact local times of Nowruz in major cities worldwide for 2025:
| City | Country | Local Time (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Tehran | Iran | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 12:31 PM |
| London | United Kingdom | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 9:05 AM |
| New York | United States | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 5:05 AM |
| Toronto | Canada | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 5:05 AM |
| Dubai | United Arab Emirates | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 1:05 PM |
| Istanbul | Turkey | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 12:05 PM |
| Melbourne | Australia | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 8:05 PM |
| Stockholm | Sweden | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 10:05 AM |
| Brussels | Belgium | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 10:05 AM |
| Beijing | China | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 5:05 PM |
| Chicago | United States | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 4:05 AM |
| Los Angeles | United States | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 2:05 AM |
| Calgary | Canada | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 3:05 AM |
| Tashkent | Uzbekistan | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 2:05 PM |
| Dushanbe | Tajikistan | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 2:05 PM |
| Nur-Sultan | Kazakhstan | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 2:05 PM |
| Baku | Azerbaijan | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 1:05 PM |
| Xinjiang | China | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 3:05 PM |
| Bishkek | Kyrgyzstan | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 3:05 PM |
| Ashgabat | Turkmenistan | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 2:05 PM |
| Tirana | Albania | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 10:05 AM |
| Tbilisi | Georgia | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 1:05 PM |
| Baghdad | Iraq | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 12:05 PM |
| Damascus | Syria | Thu, Mar 20, 2025 – 12:05 PM |
Why is Nowruz Celebrated at This Time?
Nowruz is celebrated at the precise moment of the vernal equinox. This astronomical phenomenon occurs when the sun crosses the celestial equator, heading northward. Typically falling between March 19th and 22nd each year, it heralds the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, symbolising rebirth and the awakening of nature.
The choice of this date traces back over 3,000 years to ancient Persian traditions. The ancient Persians revered nature, particularly its cyclical patterns, celebrating Nowruz as a reminder of life’s renewal and endless opportunities for fresh starts.
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Cultural Significance of Nowruz
Nowruz is not just an astronomical event—it’s a deeply cultural celebration, recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Countries such as Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and various communities across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and even the Balkans celebrate it passionately.
Celebrations typically involve thorough spring-cleaning of homes (known as “Khaneh Tekani” in Persian), visiting family, preparing special meals like Haft-sin (a table set with seven items starting with the letter ‘S’ symbolizing health, wealth, and prosperity), and participating in outdoor festivities.
Global Impact of Nowruz
Today, Nowruz extends far beyond its traditional boundaries, celebrated globally by diaspora communities who bring the rich cultural heritage and joyous traditions to cities worldwide. It serves as an essential bridge for cross-cultural understanding and harmony, emphasising peace, unity, and a collective hope for prosperity.
As people worldwide observe Nowruz in 2025, they are united by a shared moment of renewal, hope, and interconnectedness, reinforcing the timeless message of this remarkable celebration.