March 20 – Novruz

Novruz is one of the most beloved and ancient holidays of the Azerbaijani people. Symbolizing the awakening of nature and the beginning of the new year, this holiday is celebrated annually on March 20–21. The roots of Novruz go back thousands of years to the Zoroastrian era, and today it is still widely celebrated with great enthusiasm across Azerbaijan and many Turkic-speaking nations.

Novruz is not just a one-day celebration; it is preceded by four weeks of preparation. The holiday begins with four special Tuesdays, known as Çərşənbə — Water, Fire, Wind, and Earth Tuesdays — each symbolizing the awakening of one of nature’s elements.

Before the holiday, homes are thoroughly cleaned, festive tables are prepared, eggs are dyed, and bonfires are lit for people to jump over, symbolizing renewal and purification. One of the central symbols of Novruz is the xonça — a decorative tray filled with sprouted wheat (səməni), candles, painted eggs, and sweets. Traditional foods such as şəkərbura, paxlava, qoğal, plov, and other festive dishes are an essential part of the celebration.

Novruz also brings joy to children and youth through customs such as qapı pusmaq (doorstep fortune-telling), qulaq falı (listening for predictions), and leaving small bags outside doors, which neighbors fill with sweets and gifts. These traditions, passed down through generations, keep the holiday vibrant and meaningful.

Novruz is not only a festival of spring but also a celebration of family, unity, and solidarity. It reflects values of abundance, prosperity, peace, and blessing.

In 2009, Novruz was inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, and since 2010 it has been recognized as an international holiday by the United Nations.

Every year, the Azerbaijani community in Spain celebrates Novruz with special respect and enthusiasm, sharing the colors, flavors, and traditions of this ancient holiday with the wider community.