In Kazakhstan, the arrival of spring on March 21st is marked by the vibrant celebration of Nauryz, a holiday that heralds not only the spring equinox but also the renewal of nature. For centuries, this day has been recognized as the start of the New Year in many eastern cultures, including Kazakhstan, where «Nauryz» translates from Farsi as «New Day.»
Although rooted in ancient traditions, Nauryz is not a religious holiday in Kazakhstan. It predates the arrival of Islam and is a remnant of ancient pagan rituals that paid homage to the natural world. Similar seasonal celebrations can be found in other cultures, such as India’s Lori, which marks the end of winter; Egypt’s Jam en-Nessim, which celebrates the arrival of spring; Israel’s Tu BiShvat, marking the rainy season; and Iceland’s Sumarsdag, signaling the beginning of summer.
In Kazakhstan, Nauryz symbolizes fertility, friendship, and love. On this festive day, people dress in their finest attire, visit family and friends, and exchange good wishes. The day is filled with joyful singing, dancing, traditional games, and a special menu featuring iconic Kazakh dishes, including kumys, a fermented mare’s milk drink, and the must-try nauryz-kozhe.
Nauryz-kozhe holds a special place in the holiday. Kazakhs believe that enjoying this dish during the celebration ensures prosperity for the year ahead. This hearty soup, made from seven key ingredients—meat, water, flour, butter, millet (or rice/corn), salt, and milk—symbolizes the seven essential elements of a fulfilling life: growth, fortune, happiness, wealth, health, wisdom, and divine protection.
The number seven plays a central role in Nauryz celebrations. The nauryz-kozhe is traditionally served in seven bowls, offered to the aksakals, the respected elders of the community. It is customary to invite seven guests into your home and, in turn, visit seven other homes during the holiday.
But Nauryz is more than just food and family. The day echoes with congratulations of “Koktem tudy!” (Spring is born!), while traditional poets, or akins, engage in lively verbal duels. National contests are a key part of the festivities, from kazaksha-gures (Kazakh wrestling) to the logic game toguz kumalak and Kazakhstan’s renowned horse games like kyz-kuu and bayga. In public squares, theatrical performances entertain the crowds, while young people gather to socialize and play on the large log swings known as altybakan.
Nauryz is celebrated over three days in Kazakhstan and has been recognized by the United Nations as an International Holiday. It is observed not only across Central Asia but also in countries like Georgia, India, Iran, China, and Turkey, making it a truly global celebration of renewal and togetherness.