San Francisco City Hall, in partnership with the nonprofit Persian Women in Tech, hosted the Nowruz 1405 celebration on March 20, 2026, from noon to 3 p.m. This event marked the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring, bringing together diverse communities from the Bay Area and beyond. The Uzbek Community Center of San Francisco Bay Area (UCCSFBA) participated to highlight its vibrant community and cultural heritage alongside other groups representing Turkish, Kazakh, and Azerbaijani traditions.
In addition to participation, volunteers from the Uzbek community across the Bay Area actively contributed by setting up cultural displays and serving traditional Uzbek treats to all attendees. These volunteers enthusiastically shared fascinating facts about Uzbekistan and stood ready to answer questions about Uzbek traditions and cuisine, enriching the cultural experience for guests.
This year’s celebration is a daytime cultural observance rather than the usual evening gala—a thoughtful change made out of respect for the hardships many in the community are facing. The event was free and open to everyone, emphasizing inclusivity and education about Nowruz, celebrated by over 300 million people worldwide.
Attendees experienced traditional Haft-Seen displays featuring symbolic items representing health, prosperity, and renewal, along with authentic Persian, Uzbek, Kazakh and Turkye music and dance performances. The program included remarks from San Francisco’s Mayor Daniel Lurie and other city officials, highlighting the city’s dedication to honoring Iranian and Central Asian cultures.
Beyond celebration, the event served as an educational platform fostering cross-cultural understanding and community connection. Uzbek, Turkish and Kazakh and Persian sweets and tea were served, adding warmth and hospitality to the afternoon.
Overall, this gathering at City Hall highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of the Bay Area, honoring ancient traditions while acknowledging contemporary challenges. It’s a meaningful occasion for both longtime Nowruz observers and newcomers eager to learn about this vibrant festival of renewal and unity.