Premier John Horgan has issued the following statement in celebration of Nowruz on Thursday, March 19, 2020:

“Today, millions of people from around the world will celebrate Nowruz, the Persian New Year that welcomes the coming of spring.

“Rooted in traditions that date back thousands of years, Nowruz is a time of renewal that embraces new beginnings while old chapters close. Traditionally, people celebrate by jumping over bonfires to burn away bad luck and replace it with warmth, health and energy. Children bang on pots and collect sweets and coins from neighbours. Families gather to sing songs and eat feasts of grilled meat, spiced stew and steamed rice.

“This year, many families may choose to celebrate Nowruz differently as people take precautionary steps to protect their health and the health of others. No matter how people choose to celebrate Nowruz this year, I wish you a joyous new year blessed with health, happiness and prosperity.

“Norouzetan Pirouz!”

For a Farsi translation: http://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Nowruz-2020_Farsi.pdf

For a French translation: http://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Nowruz-2020_French.pdf