A free event with food, crafts and performances will take place Saturday in Phoenix as a variety of groups celebrate Nowruz.

Phoenix Councilwoman Yassamin Ansari, the International Rescue Committee, Arizona State University, the Arizona Persian Cultural Center and more than 30 community partners are playing host to the third annual event 4-8 p.m. March 16 at Civic Space Park, 424 N. Central Ave.

It will feature a multicultural night market and resource fair spotlighting Phoenix’s refugee and immigrant communities, according to a release.

“As we welcome spring and the Persian New Year in Phoenix, I’m so proud to have grown Nowruz into a celebratory and inclusive community event where thousands can learn about our rich history, diverse communities and continue to build a more connected city,” Ansari said.

“From supporting new entrepreneurs to relishing in delicious cuisine and dance, I hope you join us in setting thoughtful intentions for a prosperous and peaceful year to come.”

Nowruz is celebrated in countries with significant Persian cultural influence, which include Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, India, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Turkey, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

For more: https://www.nowruzphx.com/