In 2019, co-founders Lawdan Shojaee and Shideh Doerr set out to bring the Persian New Year
celebration to Arizona, recognizing the multicultural richness of Scottsdale. Their vision was to
create a vibrant, community-driven festival that not only honored Persian traditions but also pro-
moted cultural exchange and diversity. The Persian New Year Festival (PNYF) in Scottsdale has
since become the premier cultural event celebrating Nowruz, the Persian New Year. Each year,
the festival offers a rich cultural experience, immersing attendees in Persian traditions through
music, dance, food, and art, while also featuring interactive activities that foster cross-cultural en-
gagement. PNYF showcases the diversity and vibrancy of Persian culture, featuring both local and
international artists, making it a key event for those seeking to learn about Persian heritage and
celebrate its timeless traditions.