It’s a wondrous sight. On the grass outside the building, students are enjoying their beers, while the party in the Auditorium makes you think of winter festivities. Men are dressed in suits, and women are wearing fancy, multi-colored dresses. Still, they’re all celebrating spring. Iranian New Year, Noroez, is celebrated on the first day of astronomical spring.

It’s crowded in the Auditorium, which has been decorated with Persian carpets for the occasion. A band is playing melancholy music, and an artist is making still lifes picturing gold fish, apples, and garlic; Persian symbols for life, beauty, and cure. At six, the year 1393 is welcomed with cheers, followed by hugs. Two women in traditional attire are giving out nuts and Iranian currency – the rial.

It’s the second time Noroes is celebrated in the Auditorium. Once again, the event is organized by Reihaneh Feiz. “This is the most important day of the year for Iranians”, the master student of Chemical Engineering tells us. “And that’s the reason why everyone is so dolled up. We believe everything you do today will influence the rest of the year.”

Although the majority of the three hundred visitors is from Iranian descent, there are quite some other nationalities, too. According to Reihanah the organization deliberately decided to invite other nationalities. “There are misunderstandings about Iran. Many people know of the political issues, and not much else. We want to show them our culture, too.”