Generations of families gathered in Wollongong last Thursday, March 20 to celebrate the ancient northern spring festival of Nowruz, which means 'New Day'.

Hosted by the Illawarra Iranian Association, the Persian New Year party at the University of Wollongong began with a dinner, then a countdown to welcome the New Year at 8.01pm. Guests – many dressed in florals – spent the night dancing with their friends and family, and taking pictures with Nowruz decorations. 

The atmosphere was joyous as the clock ticked over into the New Year. Some called loved ones overseas to share the moment.

Read more: The Illawarra Iranian Association's Diana Ramezani and Ramin Bayani told the Flame about Nowruz, how it's celebrated in Wollongong and around the world in this article.