The University of Wyoming’s Central Asian Student Association (CASA) will celebrate its eighth annual Central Asian Awareness Day and Navruz from 6:30-11 p.m. Saturday, April 2, in the Wyoming Union Ballroom.

Though the event is free and open to the public, tickets are required. Tickets will be distributed Thursday and Friday, March 31-April 1, at 11 a.m. at the Wyoming Union information desk.

Navruz is one of the most treasured holidays in Central Asia, Iran and Azerbaijan, says CASA adviser Dilnoza Khasilova, a current Global Engagement Fellow in UW’s Global Engagement Office.

“Sometimes known as Persian New Year, Navruz is a chance to celebrate nature, to welcome a new year and to enjoy flavorful food with friends, neighbors and family,” Khasilova says. “Navruz is celebrated on the spring equinox, which is usually March 21. The holiday is celebrated across Iran and Central Asia, all the way to the Black Sea and the Balkans.”

The celebration will feature Zamira Salim, a folk dancer from Central Asia, and guest speaker Mark Edward Reese, a former U.S. Department of Defense officer.

CASA, established in October 2011 as a recognized student organization at UW, was formed to create and promote a better understanding of Central Asia and its rich culture and history among students, faculty and the local community through involvement, as well as participation in various social and cultural activities.

The organization has presented many cultural events on campus and in the community. CASA has been recognized for the top country display during International Education Week at UW three times. The group’s table was voted the best cultural display by organizers of the event.

“By showing Central Asian heritage, our students develop close relationships and deepened intercultural understanding,” Khasilova says.

For more information about Central Asian Awareness Day, visit Facebook or email Khasilova at dkhasilo@uwyo.edu