March 21: Navruz Holiday

Navruz is one of the brightest and most joyful holidays. This ancient celebration is over 3,000 years old and originates from Zoroastrian traditions. Since ancient times, Navruz has symbolized unity and the arrival of the New Year according to the Eastern calendar.

Although Navruz officially falls on March 21, festivities and events take place throughout the month, before and after the holiday. On Navruz, people cook sumalak and other national dishes, exchange gifts, visit relatives, and take part in folk festivals and celebrations. Cities and towns are thoroughly cleaned, streets are decorated with spring flowers, and flowerbeds are planted everywhere—symbolizing the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new life.