Navreh

Navreh is a traditional Kurdish New Year festival, which is celebrated by Kurds, an ethnic group primarily residing in the Middle East and Central Asia. The celebration marks the beginning of the year in the Persian calendar, also known as the Kurdish calendar.

Traditionally, Navreh takes place on March 20th every year, corresponding to the first day of spring, also known as the spring equinox. According to the Persian calendar, the new year falls on the first day of spring, which marks the beginning of the year with the ancient Persian month of Nowruz. As a result, the arrival of spring is marked with renewal and growth, celebrating the triumph of life and light over darkness and cold.

Preparations for Navreh begin several weeks in advance, with people engaging in a series of rituals and customs. During Navreh festivities, popular activities include gathering with family and friends, performing traditional dances, and singing folk songs. People also traditionally decorate their homes and streets with colorful flowers and spring-themed decorations. Traditional Kurdish dishes, such as kebabs and dolmas, are also prepared to celebrate the occasion.

In addition to its traditional and cultural significance, Navreh has also gained international recognition. In 2005, UNESCO inscribed Nowruz on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, considering it an important cultural event. Many countries, including Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Turkey, celebrate Navreh as a symbol of spring and renewal.