On Wednesday, March 19, Loyola hosted its first-ever Nowruz Celebration, commemorating the Persian New Year.
Organized by the Middle Eastern and South Asian Alliance (MESA), this celebration marked the Persian New Year of 1404. Attendees participated in various traditions, including painting eggs, assembling a Haft-Seen table, reading prophetic Persian poetry, and even Henna stations were provided. Along with endless activities to partake in, was a slideshow explaining the history of the holiday.
For many, the highlight of the event was the Persian food, evoking memories of home for some, and expanding the palettes of others. I enjoyed seeing students, whether they were Persian or not, indulging in these traditions and practices I’ve partaken in since childhood.