Nowruz, the arrival of spring, is deeply rooted in Azerbaijani traditions and customs. This ancient festival is not only observed in Iran but also recognized as an official holiday in countries such as Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Russia, Turkmenistan, India, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Iraq, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Albania, China, and Uzbekistan. During these days, people engage in joyous festivities and use this time to reunite with family and friends. Nowruz is, in essence, a symbol of unity among different ethnic groups, passed down through generations and deeply rooted in Iranian heritage.
Azeris, one of Iran’s largest ethnic groups, primarily reside in the northwest of the country, particularly in the provinces of East Azerbaijan, West Azerbaijan, and Ardabil. They have a rich cultural heritage and speak Azerbaijani Turkish, one of the widely spoken Turkic languages. Azeris have made significant contributions to Iranian culture, particularly in architecture, music, and traditional handicrafts.
For Azeris, Nowruz is more than just a festival—it is a cherished tradition celebrated with enthusiasm. As the final days of the year approach, Azeris prepare to welcome the arrival of spring. Here are some of the unique customs and traditions observed by Azeris during Nowruz:
Azeris refer to the last month of the year as “Bayram Ayı,” meaning “the month of Earth’s reawakening.” Each of the last four Wednesdays of the year is dedicated to one of the natural elements: water, wind, fire, and earth. The final Wednesday, known as “Charshanba Khatun,” is celebrated with rituals such as drawing the image of a woman on flour and jumping over water. This practice is an essential part of Nowruz celebrations among Azeris and carries deep symbolic meaning.
On the night of the last Wednesday of the year, young people lower their scarves from rooftops into homes, hoping to receive small gifts or treats from the residents. This tradition symbolizes the wish for a prosperous new year and is one of the beloved customs of Nowruz among Azeris.
On the last Wednesday of the year, the bride’s family sends a decorative tray filled with colored eggs, nuts, and new clothes to the groom’s family. Additionally, food and fabric gifts are prepared for young women in the family, reinforcing the strong bonds between families during Nowruz. The “Khoncha” is a central element of Nowruz festivities, symbolizing abundance and good fortune.
On the eve of Chaharshanbe Suri, Azeris break old pottery and replace them with new ones. This symbolizes getting rid of negativity and welcoming renewal. The cultural importance of this ritual in Azerbaijan is undeniable. Families also visit elders and recite traditional verses, strengthening community bonds.
Takamchi performers carry wooden goat figurines while singing traditional songs, announcing the arrival of spring. This is one of the most vibrant and joyful Nowruz traditions among Azeris, highlighting the deep-rooted folklore of Azerbaijani culture. The Takam-Gardani ritual remains a unique aspect of Nowruz celebrations and continues to be performed with great enthusiasm.
The Nowruz feast of Azeris is filled with symbols of prosperity: nuts, homemade sweets, apples, and halva. Traditional Azerbaijani Nowruz dishes such as nuts, sweets, and halva hold deep symbolic meaning. These festive tables, known as “Bayram Sofrasi,” are prepared to welcome guests and share blessings.
Before the New Year’s arrival, the family elder places banknotes in the Quran, and family members receive their first Nowruz gift from it. This practice symbolizes the wish for a prosperous and blessed year and remains an essential part of Nowruz traditions among Azeris.
Like other Iranians, Azeris celebrate Sizdah Bedar by spending time in nature. This day is an opportunity to connect with the natural world and mark the beginning of a fresh cycle. Sizdah Bedar is an integral part of Nowruz celebrations and a moment of renewal for many Azeris.
For Azeris, Nowruz is not just a holiday but a time of reconnection—with nature, family, and ancestral traditions. These customs, filled with joy and reverence for life, continue to be passed down with enthusiasm, keeping the spirit of Nowruz alive for generations to come. Nowruz represents a bridge between nature and humanity, between tradition and renewal, and remains a powerful symbol of unity among Iranian ethnic groups.