IRNA - People across Iran celebrate Sizdah Bedar, the traditional Persian festival of nature, on Sunday by spending time outdoors.

Sizdah Bedar, an ancient Iranian nature festival, is held on the 13th of Farvardin (first month in Iranian calendar) and marks the end of the Persian New Year (Norouz) celebrations.

The occasion has deep roots in the Iranian history. The festivities include picnicking outdoors in the parks or the countryside.

Although picnicking outdoors is the main event, there are other purposes for the celebrations such as appreciating nature and cleaning the mind from evil thoughts.

Sizdah Bedar gives Iranians a chance to play oudoor games, have special food and enjoy the fresh smell of
spring.