Navruz (Nowruz) means "new day". Celebrated on 21 March, at the spring equinox, it is one of the most loved holidays in Uzbekistan and across the wider Persian-influenced world, with roots far older than the Silk Road cities themselves.
What it means
Navruz marks the start of spring and the renewal of nature. It is a family holiday: people visit relatives, help neighbours, clean their homes and cook festive food together.
Sumalak
The best-known Navruz dish is sumalak, a sweet, dark paste made from sprouted wheat, cooked slowly in a huge pot through the night while women take turns stirring and singing. Small stones are often placed in the pot; finding one in your bowl is said to bring luck. You may also see halim, a hearty wheat-and-meat porridge, and green herb-filled samsa.
Celebrations
Around the holiday you may see concerts, folk music and dance, crafts fairs and festive gatherings in parks and squares. Programmes vary from year to year and city to city.
Travelling during Navruz
- 21 March is a public holiday — some offices and shops may close, while public celebrations are lively.
- Spring is high season: book trains, hotels and guides well in advance.
- The weather is usually mild, and gardens and orchards begin to bloom.
With a guide
Your guide can explain the customs, take you to where people gather and help you taste sumalak if it is being cooked nearby. Tell us your dates and we will suggest how to fit the celebrations into your day.
