Novruz Bayram: Celebrating the Azerbaijani New Year

Novruz Bayram: Celebrating the Azerbaijani New Year

Novruz Bayram, the Azerbaijani New Year, is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in Azerbaijan. Marking the arrival of spring and the renewal of nature, Novruz is a time of joy, festivity, and cultural traditions. The celebrations begin weeks in advance, with people cleaning their homes, preparing traditional foods, and sprouting wheat (samani) as a symbol of new life. On the day of Novruz, families gather to enjoy a festive meal that includes dishes like plov, dolma, and various sweets. Bonfires are lit, and people jump over them to cleanse themselves of the past year's misfortunes and welcome the new year with fresh energy. Music, dance, and traditional games add to the festive atmosphere, making Novruz Bayram a vibrant and cherished celebration of Azerbaijani culture.