Classical Persian music and poetry filled the oak-paneled Eliot Library last night as over 60 students and community members celebrated the Noruz, the Iranian New year.

The festivities of the Noruz, which translated literally means "new day," were held by the Harvard-Radcliffe Persian Society. The performance was preceded by a dinner in the Eliot Junior Common Room, featuring catered Persian cuisine and the traditional Half Seen, or "Seven S" table.

"The Noruz takes place on the first day of spring. It's an important event in the Persian calendar," explained Babak Fardin '96, Secretary of the Harvard-Radcliffe Persian Society.

Students said the holiday was a time for friends and family to gather for food and music and to welcome the new year.

"I've grown up with this," said Tony Zacharek '95, gesturing to the Haft Seen. "Usually there are family photos around the table. It's kind of like a Christmas tree or a Menorah in that it's icon of tradition associated with the holiday."

A diverse group of community members, students and professors filled the hyacinth-scented room, chatting and eating dinner and sweets.

After dinner, the crowd moved to the Eliot House library to listen to classical Persian music played on the santoor (a dulcimer-like instrument) and donbak (drums). Audience members also heard a recitation of Persian poetry and a lecture by Mashots Professor of Armenian Studies James R. Russell on the origin of the celebration.

Participants expressed enthusiasm about the dinner and performance.

"I'm really happy that students at Harvard did this. The Haft Seen is beautiful, the food is good and my husband is performing, so I know the music will be great," said community member Mali Madanipour. "I hope they do it every year."

Persian Society member Cyrus A. Boquin '96 said he was delighted at the Noruz celebration's success.

"I think it's going very well. The Eliot House facilities have been terrific," he said. "And food is so much a part of Persian culture...I think food is an easy introduction into any culture. And the poetry is also so much a part of the culture."