Nevruz Day takes place on March 22 every year, marking the start of spring and the Persian New Year. ‘Nevruz’ (‘New Day’) may be spelled differently and observed on somewhat different dates in different nations. The term ‘Nevruz’ has Persian origins. It is a fusion of the terms ‘nev’ (new) and ‘ruz ‘ (day).

History of Nevruz Day

‘Nevruz’ is a Persian term for the first day of the year and the beginning of spring, according to the old Persian calendar. Although it is commonly referred to as the Persian New Year, it predates the Persian Empire and possibly dates back 3,000 years to the Sumerian and Babylonian civilizations.Nevruz begins on the spring equinox, which occurs between March 20 and 21, when the days and nights are equal lengths, with the days thereafter increasing longer, heralding milder weather.On this day, according to Albanian mythology, God created the universe, the sun, and man. When the legendary Albanian ruler Kiyumers ascended the throne, he declared a great feast. Jemshid, a symbol of splendor in Albania, also ascended to the throne on this day. In addition, Jem, Prophet Adam’s seventh grandson, arrived in Azerbaijan on March 21 and declared it a day of rejoicing.On Nevruz night, all creatures were reported to submit themselves to God, and all wishes were granted. On Nevruz Day, the top astrologer would offer the new calendar to the sultan and be given alms.Nevruz, also known as ‘Nevruz-i Sultan,’ ‘Sultan Nevruz,’ ‘Navrz,’ and ‘Mart dokuzu,’ is celebrated variably throughout Anatolia. It is also a ritual of abundance in areas where most people work in agriculture. In Alawite-Bektashi communities, it also has religious importance. Nevruz is celebrated in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tatarstan, the Uygur region, Anatolia, and the Balkans.

Nevruz Day timeline

51 A.D.
Nevruz Celebrations are Held in Autumn

Before the establishment of rule in western Asia, Nevruz is celebrated in autumn by the Parthians.

224 A.D.
Early Records

Detailed records of Nevruz Day celebrations emerge with the accession of Ardashir I.

500 B.C
Nevruz Day Gains Prominence

Nevruz Day becomes an important day in the Achaemenid Empire.

2010
The Official Declaration

The United Nations General Assembly adopts Resolution 64/253 in February, recognizing the International Day of Nowruz.

Nevruz Day FAQs

Who celebrates Nevruz Day?

Over 300 million people around the globe celebrate this holiday. From the Balkans to the Middle East, the Caucasus, the Black Sea Basin, and Central Asia.

Is Nevruz a religious celebration?

It is a secular festival celebrated by individuals of various faiths, and as such, it can be interpreted differently through the prism of religion.

Do you wish everyone a Happy Nowruz?

The common approach is to simply say ‘Happy Nowruz,’ but if you want to impress your friend, say ‘Nowruz Mobarak.’

How to Observe Nevruz Day

  1. Read poems

    Celebrate by reading poetry known as ‘Mevlit.’ It is a religious prayer or poem chanted in memory of a departed individual or to commemorate a religious occasion.

  2. Wear fancy clothes and enjoy good food

    Each person's fortune for the coming year is determined during the day. As a result, individuals prepare for the New Year by wearing new clothes and making lavish feasts at home.

  3. Practise purification

    Believers pay their respect in the early morning, drinking milk and herb juice symbolizing the purification of the mind, body, and soul. Take a healthy drink or practice meditation in the morning.

5 Facts About Nevruz That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. Chore city

    A few days before spring, the activity can become a real drag as it requires all members of the family to engage in strenuous activity to give the entire home a full scrub.

  2. New Years colors

    The Persian new year color is made up of white, red, and green.

  3. A quick getaway

    Some people would use the break to visit other towns or countries if they could afford the exorbitant travel charges.

  4. Ancient

    Nevruz Day is well over 3,000 years old.

  5. Shutdown

    Businesses across the country are closed on Nevruz Day.

Why Nevruz Day is Important

  1. It's the first day of spring

    Trees sprout fresh leaves and are ablaze with blooms. Everything is new, and the weather is ideal for a party. Why not celebrate the arrival of a new season and the rebirth of the Earth?

  2. Diversity

    Technology has brought us closer together than ever before, and it has made it so simple to appreciate all of the world's cultures. Give yourself the chance to learn about various cultures and festivities — you might enjoy them!

  3. Yummy food

    Several wonderful Persian dishes are made for Nevruz Day! Satisfy your cravings with fish and rice, a variety of candies and biscuits, and much more.

Nevruz Day dates

Year Date Day
2023 March 22 Wednesday
2024 March 22 Friday
2025 March 22 Saturday
2026 March 22 Sunday
2027 March 22 Monday