Nowruz Festival 2026

Join us in a vibrant celebration of culture and creativity at our Nowruz Festival! 🎉 This annual festivity honors the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring with an array of exciting activities, including:

• Exhibitions showcasing the rich heritage of Persian artistry 🎨
• Live Music performances that will captivate your heart 🎶
• Family Activities designed for all ages, ensuring everyone feels included 🧒👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• Poetry Readings that highlight timeless wisdom and beauty 📜
• A Bazaar filled with delightful treasures and crafts 🛍️

Our celebration is open to everyone! Whether you're a long-time observer of Nowruz, new to Persian traditions, or just curious about this beautiful event, you are warmly welcomed to gather, share stories, and connect. Nowruz, which has been celebrated for over 3,000 years by more than 300 million people worldwide, symbolizes renewal, optimism, and cherished moments with loved ones, especially outdoors 🌷.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Waterlow Park, featuring enchanting ponds and lush greenery reminiscent of a Persian garden, this year’s festivities will also be hosted at the Lauderdale House under the artistic direction of Mehrdad Aref-Adib. Our goal is to emphasize cultural traditions and artistic expression rather than religious or political themes, making it a space where all communities can come together.

Special Events 🎊

• Nowruz Private View & Festival Launch
  🗓️ Wednesday 11 March, 7:30-9:30 PM | Free
  Experience the unveiling of three unique exhibitions during our special kick-off event. Learn More

• String of Pearls Ensemble
  🗓️ Monday 16 March, 7:30 PM | £15.50
  Delight in an enchanting evening of poetry and melodies inspired by the teachings of Rumi. Learn More

• Jazz in the House: Maydan Ensemble
  🗓️ Thursday 19 March, 8 PM | £15.50
  Enjoy an irresistible fusion of modern jazz and Persian folk music. Learn More

• Iran +100 Book Event
  🗓️ Tuesday 24 March, 8 PM | £12
  Join a thought-provoking discussion with Iranian authors on their works and visions for the future. Learn More

Ongoing Events 🖼️

• Echoes in Print Exhibition
  🗓️ 11 March - 6 April | Free
  Explore contemporary prints by five talented Iranian artists. Learn More

• The Boy on the Peacock Throne Exhibition
  🗓️ Upper Gallery, Free
  Discover an illustrated memoir by Mehrdad Aref-Adib about life in Iran before and after the 1979 Revolution. Learn More

• Haft-Sin Trail
  Explore Waterlow Park as you gather ingredients for the Haft-Sin, Free
  Discover More

We eagerly invite you to immerse yourself in the beauty and joy of Nowruz! 🌹✨