Nowruz Festival at the Embassy of Afghanistan in Canberra

The Embassy of Afghanistan in Canberra is hosting the International Day of Nowruz Celebration on Sunday, 22 March 2026, bringing together members of the Afghan-Australian community, friends of Afghanistan, and organisations supporting multicultural engagement and refugee settlement in the ACT. Details of the program is the following:

ORDER OF ARRANGEMENT:

10.00 AM | Arrival & Registration
Traditional Smoking Ceremony, Lucky Draw, Haft-Mewa, Samanak Cooking (Continuing), and Haft-Sin on Display

11.00 AM | A Thousand Suns Exhibition
Opening of exhibition featuring Afghan-Australian voices in support of the rights, dignity, and resilience of girls & women of Afghanistan.

11.15 AM | Welcome & Acknowledgement
Official Proceedings, Housekeeping, National Anthems, Ambassador’s Remarks and Speeches

12.00 Noon | Presentations
Sponsors, Contributors & Community Engagement, Samanak Special Song

1.00 PM – 2.00 PM | Buffet Lunch
Self serving lunch, tea, refreshments

2.00 PM – 5.00 PM | Cultural Performances & Activities
Enjoy live music by distinguished singers, traditional Attan dance (registration open), egg-tapping, henna art, Faal-e-Hafiz poetry, tug-of-war (three rounds; registration open), kite running, a jumping castle for children, and exhibitions of Afghan rugs, carpets, and jewellery, and Lucky Draw announcement.

5.00 PM | Event Concludes

Nowruz, the Afghan/Persian New Year, is a centuries-old cultural tradition marking the arrival of spring and symbolising renewal, hope, and community. The celebration aims to honour this shared heritage while strengthening connections across communities in Canberra.

This event is the result of collaboration among many community organisations, with the generous support of sponsors and contributors including Afghanistan Peace Foundation (Canbera branch) Migrant and Refugees Settlement Services (MARSS) Australia, Australian Red Cross, Multicultural Hub, Sureway Australia, MTC, Anti Slavery Australia, Vinnies, and community organisations, cultural groups, volunteers, and Resolution Community Services. The organising committee also includes supporters and volunteers who are working together to deliver a vibrant and inclusive celebration reflecting the richness of Afghan culture and traditions.

The Nowruz celebration will feature a range of cultural activities, including traditional music, artistic performances, family-friendly activities, and opportunities for community engagement.

Further details about the program, performers, and activities will be announced soon on this website.

We warmly invite volunteers, community groups, artists, cultural contributors, and supporting organisations to take part in shaping this celebration. Those interested in contributing to the program, supporting the event, or joining the organising efforts are encouraged to contact the organising team through the Embassy’s cultural section at [email protected] and [email protected], phone number: +61473561672.

To attend the event, please register HERE.

This is a public event. Please join with families and friends.

Together, we look forward to celebrating Nowruz in the spirit of community, cultural pride, and shared hope for the year ahead.