Novruz

Novruz, meaning “New Day”, is Azerbaijan’s most cherished holiday, marking the arrival of spring and the astronomical equinox on 20-24 March. It celebrates the renewal of nature and spiritual purification. Traditions include growing semeni (green wheat shoots) as a symbol of abundance, jumping over bonfires to cast away the troubles of the previous year, and baking symbolic pastries such as shekerbura and pakhlava. It is a time for reconciliation, family gatherings, and hospitality, with doors traditionally open to guests.