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 promoted 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 engagement. 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.
In its seventh year, the festival has expanded its influence with Ehsan Matoori joining as the artistic director. His leadership has brought a fresh vision to the event, emphasizing creative programming that highlights the dynamic and multifaceted nature of Persian culture. PNYF is officially hosted by the City of Scottsdale, and it continues to grow as a significant cultural and economic contributor to the region, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The festival brings in approximately 15,000 people annually, with an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 attendees traveling from other cities, including visitors from Canada. One of the festival’s goals is to be the “Voice of Persia” and to celebrate the arrival of spring and the rebirth of nature, staying true to the essence of Nowruz.