Published March 7 2025
In celebration of the holiday of Nowruz, the city is partnering with the Alefba Group to host a free community gathering on Saturday, March 22, 5-7 p.m., at City Hall, 450 110th Ave. NE. People are welcome to enjoy tea and Persian pastries and fruits, listen to uplifting music and take photos with a “haft-seen" – a traditional table setting featuring food items that are cherished symbols of Nowruz.
“This will be the first time we have held an event at City Hall to acknowledge Nowruz,” said Dr. Linda Whitehead, chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. “We hope this event will provide an opportunity to learn about our community and ensure everyone feels welcomed, celebrated and valued.”
Nowruz, which in Persian means “new day,” is an ancestral festivity based on the solar calendar, marking the first day of spring and symbolizing nature’s renewal. It is celebrated on the vernal equinox in the northern hemisphere.
Alefba is a nonprofit cultural and social organization based in Bellevue. The City Council will present a proclamation in honor of Nowruz at the council meeting on March 11.
This is one of several community events to celebrate Nowruz scheduled in the Seattle and Bellevue areas this month.