Nowruz (pronounced “no-rooz”) is the Persian New Year that millions around the world celebrate. It marks the first day of spring and is the start of a new year in the Iranian calendar, which is on March 20 or 21 each year.

Many will be celebrating this festive occasion and holy day here in Calgary. Here are some of the celebrations happening around the city:

Charshanbe Soori

• When: Tuesday, March 15
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Where: Edworthy Park – 5050 Spruce Drive SW (south of the river at picnic site 9)

Norooz Gala with DJ Navid from Bia2.com

Image: Norooz Gala / Facebook

• When: Saturday, March 19 at 7 p.m.
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Where: Ramada Hotel Downtown Calgary – 708 8th Avenue SW
• Tickets: One for $25 or two for $45 – available at Shiraz Restaurant, Atlas Restaurant, Teaspoon Restaurant, House of Kabob

Nowrouz Gala

Countdown the new year with a dinner buffet, dance performances, and dance party with DJ Ashkan.

• When: Saturday, March 19
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Where: Coast Plaza Hotel – 1316 33th Street NE
• Tickets: $60 for members, $80 for non-members, $50 for kids – buy online

Nowruz 1395 Celebration

Image: Nowruz 1395 Celebration / Facebook

Ring in the new year with a dinner and dance party full with giveaways, door prizes, and much more.

• When: Saturday, March 19
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Where: Austrian-Canadian Club – 3112-11th Street NE
• Tickets: $65 for adults, $35 for kids (4 to 10 years old), free for kids under 4 – call House of Kabob at 403-277-7151