Iranians Prepare for Nowruz Amidst Turmoil of War

Fri Mar 20 2026 02:24:17 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

As the Persian New Year approaches, Iranians cope with the emotional burden of celebrations overshadowed by conflict and loss.

With the traditional festival of Nowruz around the corner, Iranians find themselves amidst a war that has drastically changed their preparations and celebrations. The usual excitement of household cleaning and shopping is overshadowed by the fear of airstrikes and a deep sense of loss. This year marks the first Nowruz for many during wartime, as the country faces significant casualties and infrastructure destruction. While some continue to celebrate defiantly, the overall atmosphere is one of restraint and worry.

As the Persian New Year festival of Nowruz approaches, Iranians are grappling with a landscape marred by war and conflict. Typically, this time of year is filled with excitement as families prepare by cleaning their homes, shopping for new clothes, and gathering sweets to celebrate the new year, which falls on March 20.

However, the onset of warfare has cast a solemn shadow over the festivities. Mina, a woman in her 50s from Damavand, expressed her heartbreak, stating, This year? Every day feels so long. It's like I've lost track of time. Nowruz, which means new day, is an age-old festival that symbolizes the arrival of spring and new beginnings, celebrated not just in Iran but across various countries and cultures. This year, it is marked by a significant shift, as many experience their first Nowruz amid the turmoil of armed conflict.

Since February 28, Iran has faced ongoing bombardments from US and Israeli forces, disrupting daily life and altering the vibrancy typically associated with the festival. Reports indicate that over 3,000 casualties have occurred in Iran due to the attacks, a heartbreaking statistic that resonates deeply during this season of renewal.

In Tehran, the usual hustle and bustle of market days leading up to Nowruz is notably subdued. Another resident, Parmis, highlighted the stark contrast to previous years, remarking on the hesitance to shop amidst fears of airstrikes. Nonetheless, there are those who defiantly carry on traditions, seeking to maintain a semblance of normalcy despite the pressures of war.

Amir, Mina's son, shared his concerns for the future, noting the loss of jobs and infrastructure due to the conflict. His anxious wish echoed throughout families: At this rate, there might not even be much left of Iran. I don't want this to be our last Nowruz. For many, the preparation rituals continue, though the atmosphere is permeated with anxiety and uncertainty.

Some do take to the streets for last-minute preparations, finding fleeting moments of joy amid the devastation. As Shirin, a young Tehranite put it, Some shops are open, but you can't smell Nowruz in the air.”

Nowruz beacons the hope associated with spring and new beginnings, yet this year, the celebrations are laced with loss and contemplation of a future in jeopardy. As families come together for what should be a joyful occasion, the haunting reality of war lingers in the background, as residents navigate their traditions against the backdrop of potential danger.