Flash floods in southern Iran have killed at least 19 people and injured at least 100 more, officials say.

The people of the historic city of Isfahan will welcome the approaching Iranian New Year on the spring equinox this year by holding a celebration from the Safavid era called “Zendeh Rud Festival” to appreciate the revival of the old river after water flows again into Zayandeh Rud River on March 17.

The Haft Sin spread is the main symbol of Nowruz with each one of its elements representing an important feature of life.

Nowruz is one of the oldest celebrations of Iran marking the beginning of the New Year on the spring equinox.

The spring equinox this year falls on Thursday morning at 01:28:27 local time in Iran (21:58:27 GMT on Wed 20 March), marking the start of the Persian New Year on the first day of Farvardin [March].

As Nowruz draws in closer, Iranians are getting ready by observing the rituals and plans to usher in the New Year.

Vancouver City Council has included Nowruz (the Iranian New Year) in its calendar to recognize the spiritual heritage of its Iranian and other dual nationality residents who celebrate the first day of spring.

The Iranian President met with the family of Alfred Gabri on New Year’s eve to wish this Iranian Christian family a Happy New Year.

Senior Iranian officials in separate messages congratulated world leaders and all Christians on the start of the New Year.

Sabzi polo mahi, or mixed herb rice and fish, is a deliciously popular dish in Iran which is prepared on special occasions, such as the Iranian New Year’s Eve (Nowruz) on the spring equinox. Not only is this a healthy meal, it is chic enough to serve at gatherings for guests. The kind of fish cooked for this dish is up to individual taste, but the vast majority use white fish.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted Jewish New Year greetings to Jews in Iran and around the world on Sunday, as tensions mount between the Islamic Republic and Israel over Tehran’s regional role.

You may have already heard that the name Nowruz in Kurdistan was attributed to the day when the Iranian hero Kaveh Ahangar was victorious over Zahhak. This day was named “Nowruz”, meaning New Day, and celebrated as the New Year. Large bonfires were lit on hilltops and people celebrated hand in hand by singing and dancing.