March 21 Navruz holiday
2026-03-21 / Calendar of events
March 21 is the holiday of Navruz, which marks the vernal equinox, the new year and the awakening of nature. On this day, Navruz is celebrated in Uzbekistan as a national holiday and is an official day off. This day is a symbol of renewal and purification in the world and in the human heart. Navruz is one of the oldest and most important holidays widely celebrated in Uzbekistan.
During this holiday, families prepare national dishes together, such as Sumalak, Halim, Kuk Somsa and Plov. Navruz is also a holiday of friendship, unity and brotherhood.
On March 21, day and night are equal, which means the awakening of nature and the beginning of a new solar cycle. Navruz is also a symbol of renewal in human life, purification of the soul and the spread of goodness. That is why Navruz is given special attention in Uzbekistan and is widely celebrated as a national holiday.
To prepare for the holiday, various khashars are held, houses and streets are cleaned, trees are planted, and places where food is served are built. And on Navruz day, festive tables are set and families, friends and relatives celebrate this joyful day together.
Nowruz holiday was included in the representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2009.
