Sizdah Bedar 2025

Description

Sizdah Bedar is an Iranian holiday that marks the end of the Nowruz celebration period. Its name means the thirteenth day. People treat it as the last day of the spring festival and a time to close the holiday cycle.

It always falls on the thirteenth day of Farvardin in the Persian calendar. That usually lands on April second or third in the Gregorian calendar. Because Nowruz starts on the spring equinox, Sizdah Bedar comes exactly thirteen days later.

The day is about being outdoors and connecting with the new season. It celebrates nature, renewal, and a fresh start after the new year. It helps families and communities feel hopeful about the months ahead.

Sizdah Bedar is significant for cultural identity and social unity. It links ancient Persian ideas about spring with modern life. The day reminds people of renewal, letting go of bad luck, and respecting nature as a source of life.

Traditions

Families and friends spend the day outdoors in parks and near rivers. They spread blankets, play music, dance, tell stories, and play games like football or tag. Children run around with balloons and kites.

People bring big picnic foods. Common dishes are ash e reshteh, kuku, rice and kebab, fresh herbs and bread with cheese. They also bring fruits, nuts, sweets and thermoses of tea to share with everyone.

A key ritual is the sabzeh from the Nowruz table. People discard the green sprouts into flowing water or tie them to trees and bridges. Young people sometimes knot the grass while making a wish for love or good luck.

Travel Tips

Many shops, banks, and some museums close or open late on Sizdah Bedar. Expect heavy traffic on roads out of cities after noon. Book taxis early, use public transit before peak times, and carry water and sun protection.

Join public parks and organized events to stay safe. Keep valuables close, follow local police instructions, and use marked picnic areas. Respect crowd space and clean up after yourself to enjoy the day without problems.