The spring equinox is a sign we’ve made it through the winter. Melting snow, blooming flowers, puddle jumping and possibly a new seasonal wardrobe are just a few things to look forward to. Spring has officially sprung and if that’s not reason enough to celebrate, surely one of Friday’s recognized holidays is.
Here are some things that are happening on the first day of spring 2015:
International Day of Happiness
You’ve probably been told that is takes fewer muscles to smile than to frown. So get your dose of happy today.
The first International Day of Happiness was first celebrated in 2013 after the UN adopted a resolution in 2011, recognizing happiness as a fundamental goal.
READ MORE: What you need to know about International Day of Happiness
#InternationalDayOfHappiness is trending on Twitter all around the world as social media users share what makes them happy—aside from the catchy Pharell tune.
On this March 20, the UN released a playlist that showcased the ultimate happy jams. Maybe these hand-picked hits will put a spring in your step for some spring cleaning.
READ MORE: Spring cleaning — how to declutter and get organized
Persian New Year (Nowruz)
As a new season begins, so does a new year for Persians around the world. Nowruz, meaning new day, involves many traditions to recognize the end of one year, and the beginning of a new one.
“Nowruz takes place at the exact time of the spring equinox and symbolizes the changing of the seasons and the renewal of life. It is a time of great joy, to visit family and friends, share special foods, reflect on the past year, and hope for good health and success in the future. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the ancient cultural and spiritual roots of the Persian community,” said Minister of Multiculturalism, Jason Kenney in a statement last year.
University of Ottawa student, Mariam Zohouri, made the trip back home to Toronto to celebrate with her family. For as long as she can remember, her family has rented out a restaurant for Nowruz.
“I always remember New Year with my family being a huge party – in the most traditional and modern way. We call our family in Iran when the spring equinox begins there,” said Zohouri.
In the evening, everyone gets “dolled up,” said Zohouri.
“I love that Nowruz is essentially a cultural celebration, and highlights the beauty of the Iranian people and our traditions that are so easily marred and lost in the despicable state of its government and its sad, modern history,” she said.
Persians around the world will celebrate the new beginning. In Toronto, Amnesty International’s Iran Action Circle will celebrate Nowruz on March 26 at the Centre for Social Innovation.
Journée internationale de la Francophonie (International Francophonie Day)
This March 20 holiday recognizes the influence of French language and culture both in Canada and around the world.
In 2010, there were an estimated 220 million Francophones around the world.
“Millions of people around the world are united by the French language, in which can be found a multitude of wonderful cultures and accents,” said Canada’s Gov. General David Johnson in a statement. “The Journée internationale de la Francophonie is an opportunity for all of these people to come together, in the richness of diversity, to celebrate a dynamic and colourful language.”
The only solar eclipse of the year
Some lucky spectators caught a glimpse of the only total solar eclipse of the year, early Friday morning. In case you missed the rare sighting of this eclipse, we’ve got you covered.
READ MORE: Amazing videos and photos of Friday’s solar eclipse
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