Novruz, celebrated on March 20 in Azerbaijan, is the most vibrant and colorful festival of the year, marking the arrival of spring and the Lunar New Year. This ancient holiday, deeply rooted in Persian tradition, is celebrated not only in Azerbaijan but also across many countries with Iranian and Zoroastrian heritage. Its origins can be traced back to the Sumerians and Babylonians, and in 2009, Novruz was inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List, highlighting its cultural significance.
The name “Novruz” combines the Persian words for “new” (now) and “day” (ruz), symbolizing renewal and rebirth. The festival coincides with the spring equinox, which typically falls between March 19 and March 21, but Azerbaijan uniquely celebrates it on March 20. Although Novruz was suppressed during the Soviet era, it regained its prominence in the early 1990s, and in 2006, the Azerbaijani government officially recognized it as a public holiday, granting employees five days off. Today, Azerbaijan boasts one of the longest Novruz celebrations in the world, second only to Iran.
The importance of Novruz is evident in the extensive preparations that begin a month in advance. Each of the four Tuesdays leading up to the holiday is dedicated to honoring one of the natural elements: earth, wind, fire, and water, each symbolizing different aspects of life and renewal.
Water Tuesday (Su Cersenbesi): On this day, people visit springs and rivers to collect clean water, believing it brings prosperity to their homes. Many participate in rituals such as jumping over flowing streams to cleanse themselves of sins, and family members often sprinkle each other with water before bedtime.
Fire Tuesday (Od Cersenbesi): This day involves jumping over bonfires, a symbolic act of purification. Each leap signifies leaving behind past troubles. The ashes from the bonfire are taken home to be scattered in gardens, promoting fertility and growth.
Wind Tuesday (Yel Cersenbesi): Families visit the graves of relatives to clean and prepare them for the celebrations. People gather under trees, calling out to the winds with the phrase “Yel Baba!” (“Wind Father!”). If the wind responds by moving the branches, it is believed that their wishes will come true.
Earth Tuesday (Torpaq Cersenbesi or Ilakhir Charshanba): The final Tuesday is the most significant pre-Novruz celebration. Families prepare seven traditional dishes, all starting with the letter “s.” Herb rue is thrown into the fire for protection against evil, while ashes gathered on this day are sprinkled throughout the home. Candles are lit for each family member, with the longest-burning candle symbolizing the fulfillment of wishes. Young women often gaze into mirrors with candles, hoping to catch a glimpse of their future husbands. Children play a playful game called Papaqatdi, where they throw their hats at neighbors’ doors before hiding, expecting treats in return.
Central to Novruz celebrations is the khoncha, a large silver or copper tray filled with traditional sweets and dried fruits. Each item on the khoncha carries symbolic meaning: baklava represents the sky and stars, gogal symbolizes the sun, shekerbura the moon, and colored eggs signify life. At the heart of the khoncha is samani, sprouting wheat tied with a red ribbon, representing rebirth. Burning candles are placed around the tray, one for each family member, illuminating the festivities.
Novruz is fundamentally a family holiday, with relatives gathering the evening before to celebrate together. The khoncha takes center stage on the table, and a feast featuring at least seven dishes, with plov (rice pilaf) being the highlight, is prepared. Throughout the holiday, Azerbaijani homes remain open, symbolizing hospitality, and they are kept lit throughout the night to invite good fortune for the coming year.
Public celebrations during Novruz are equally lively, featuring folk concerts, street performers, and traditional games. In rural areas, horse races known as chovqan are organized, showcasing the region’s equestrian culture. A highlight of the festivities is a comedic performance depicting the age-old conflict between Kosa, representing winter, and Kechel, symbolizing spring, culminating in the triumphant arrival of spring.
For travelers visiting Azerbaijan during Novruz, experiencing this rich tapestry of culture and tradition is a must. Engage with local families, participate in the festivities, and savor traditional dishes to fully immerse yourself in the celebration. Observing the communal spirit and the joy that fills the air during this time will undoubtedly leave you with unforgettable memories of Azerbaijan’s vibrant heritage.