Premier David Eby has issued the following statement in celebration of Nowruz:

“Hundreds of millions of people around the world, including many here in British Columbia, are today celebrating Nowruz, which means ‘new day’ and marks the start of spring.

“Nowruz is a time for family and friends to gather to read poetry, exchange gifts, enjoy festive meals and to reflect on the coming year. This ancient tradition falls on the spring equinox, uniting the Iranian and other communities in British Columbia with 300 million people celebrating around the world.

“An important Nowruz tradition is the preparation of the Haft-Seen table, which is set with seven symbolic items representing hope, renewal and prosperity for the new year.

“Celebrations will also include food, dancing and live music. Fire jumping is another tradition, symbolizing a purging of negativity from the previous year and the welcoming of a positive future for the coming year.

“I wish all celebrating Nowruz a happy and peaceful year.

“Norouzetan Pirouz!”