Each spring, Uzbekistan bursts into colour and celebration as Navruz - literally translating to ‘New Day’ - ushers in the Persian New Year. Marking the arrival of spring on 21 March, Navruz (also known as Nowruz, Nawruz, Norooz or Nevruz) is one of the most significant and cherished festivals across Central Asia, deeply rooted in tradition, history, and community spirit. For Uzbek families, it is a time of joy, renewal, and connection, as people gather to welcome the changing season with open hearts.
Our students spoke to local people and expats in Tashkent to find out what they really love about Navruz!
How Navruz is celebrated in Uzbekistan
In Uzbekistan, Navruz is more than just a holiday; it is an expression of national identity and cultural pride. Streets come alive with festivities, music, and dance, while families prepare special meals and visit relatives. One of the most beloved traditions is cooking and sharing sumalak, a thick, sweet wheat-based dish that requires hours of slow stirring. Made in large cauldrons, it's normally prepared collectively, with family and friends taking turns stirring and making wishes for the coming year.
Another key aspect of Navruz is acts of kindness and charity. Many people give to those in need, while elders are honoured with visits and special meals. It's a time for reconciliation — any past grievances are set aside, which reinforces the spirit of unity.
The origins of Navruz
Navruz dates back over 3,000 years to the Zoroastrian era, celebrated by ancient Persians and Central Asian civilisations as the first day of the new year. It is closely tied to nature, symbolising rebirth, hope, and harmony. The festival is based on the solar calendar, aligning with the vernal equinox — a time when day and night are equal in length, signifying balance and new beginnings.
Regional and international variations
While Uzbekistan’s Navruz celebrations are distinct, the festival is observed across many countries, each adding their own cultural flair. In neighbouring Tajikistan and Iran, for example, Navruz involves setting up a Haft-Seen table, featuring seven symbolic items starting with the Persian letter 'S'. Meanwhile, in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, traditional equestrian games and wrestling competitions play a central role.
Even within Uzbekistan, different regions have their own customs. In the Fergana Valley, Navruz often features intricate atlas silk costumes and lively folk performances, while in Samarkand and Bukhara, the holiday embraces Persian influences, with poetry readings and classical music.
Legends and stories of Navruz
Navruz is steeped in folklore. One of the most famous legends tells of the tyrant Zahhak, whose rule was overthrown by the hero Kaveh, bringing light and justice back to the land — an allegory for the arrival of spring. Another story tells of a wise ruler who declared Navruz a day for forgiveness and new beginnings, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of status, started the year afresh.
Traditional Navruz food and drink
Food plays a central role in Navruz festivities, symbolising abundance and prosperity. Besides sumalak, popular dishes include halim (a slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge) and kuk samsa (flaky pastries filled with fragrant greens). Dried fruits and nuts are shared generously, while herbal teas and refreshing drinks made from sumalak juice are enjoyed throughout the celebrations.
If you want to greet someone during Navruz, a simple “Navruz muborak!” (Happy Navruz!) is a warm and appreciated way to share in the joy of the season. You might also hear “Navruz bayramingiz muborak bo‘lsin!” which expresses wishes for a blessed and happy Navruz.
Modern adaptations of Navruz
While traditional customs remain at the heart of Navruz, modern adaptations have emerged, particularly in urban areas. Large-scale concerts and cultural events are organised in city centres, featuring contemporary music and dance alongside traditional performances. Eco-friendly initiatives, such as tree planting and community clean-ups, have become a growing trend, aligning with Navruz’s themes of renewal and harmony with nature.
Navruz activities for children
Navruz is a joyous time for children, who take part in games, storytelling, and craft-making activities. Many schools organise Navruz-themed performances and encourage students to create traditional decorations - watch our 2024 Navruz celebrations below! Kite flying and outdoor games are also popular, as families embrace the warmer weather and festive atmosphere.
Music and dance in Navruz
Music and dance are central to Navruz celebrations. Traditional bakhshi musicians perform epic storytelling songs, while dance troupes showcase Uzbek folk dances such as Lazgi, known for its expressive movements. The rhythmic sounds of doira (a frame drum) and nay (a flute-like instrument) fill the air as people dance and celebrate together.
Kupkari: Traditional horseback games
No Navruz celebration in Uzbekistan would be complete without the exhilarating spectacle of Kupkari, a traditional horseback competition that has been played for centuries. Also known as buzkashi in other parts of Central Asia, this game is a test of strength, horsemanship, and teamwork, drawing large crowds eager to witness the action.
In Kupkari, skilled riders compete to seize a goat or calf carcass and carry it to the goal while fending off challengers. The game demands incredible agility, endurance, and strategy, as competitors must not only control their horses but also wrestle the heavy prize from their rivals. The stakes are often high, with winners receiving valuable rewards such as livestock, cash, or even a new horse! During Navruz, Kupkari takes on special significance as communities come together to celebrate the new season. Spectators cheer from the sidelines, enjoying the energy of the event with festive food and music.
Traditional fashion and clothing for Navruz
Many people dress in traditional Uzbek clothing during Navruz, wearing vibrant silk atlas dresses and embroidered doppi caps. Women often wear colourful scarves, while men don embroidered robes called chapan. These outfits reflect Uzbekistan’s rich textile heritage and add to the festive spirit of the holiday.
Astrological and symbolic meanings of Navruz
As Navruz aligns with the spring equinox, some believe it holds astrological significance, representing a cosmic balance between light and dark. In many traditions, Navruz is seen as a time to set intentions for the year ahead, with nature’s renewal symbolising personal growth and prosperity.
More than a festival - a way of life
Navruz is not just a celebration; it embodies the values of renewal, generosity, and gratitude. Whether through sharing meals, reconnecting with loved ones, or honouring traditions passed down for generations, Navruz remains a powerful reminder of the importance of community and cultural heritage.
As Uzbekistan embraces the new season, the warmth of Navruz brings people together, reaffirming the belief that every new beginning holds the promise of joy, growth, and unity.
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The British School of Tashkent is immensely proud to announce that our Principal, Dr Andre Nel, has been honoured with a prestigious award by the Ministry of Education in Uzbekistan. This recognition reflects his remarkable dedication and efforts towards the advancement of education in the country.
At A Level, a total of 83 exams were taken with 41% of students achieving an A* or A, far surpassing the UK average of 28%. Several students achieved remarkable individual results.
Sumalak is a cherished Uzbek dish made from germinated wheat, traditionally prepared during Navruz to symbolize renewal and the arrival of spring. Germinated wheat seeds are milled and then cooked in a cauldron in cottonseed oil with added flour for 10-12 hours. It is believed that sumalak should be cooked with music, singing, humorous and merry chants, dancing, love and a good heart.
BST were delighted to host the graduation ceremony for our Year 13 graduating class at The Hilton. We wish them all the very best for their future and every success for their university lives and beyond.
