March 21 marks the beginning of spring, but for many people in the world is also the departure of Sultan Nevruz, or as it is known, the Persian New Year. Although most countries around the world celebrate it on March 21st, in Albania this holiday is celebrated on the 22nd.

But what is Nevruz Day?

Novruz otherwise known as (Nowrouz, Nooruz, Navruz, Nauru or Nevruz), in Persian means "new day" and has been celebrated for over 3000 years. Traditionally it starts as soon as the spring equinox occurs. In the Iranian calendar today is the first day of the year that also dates to winter drift and spring arrival. Novruz is celebrated in the Middle East, Central Asia, India, Georgia, Albania etc.

Usually this holiday lasts three days. Bektashi believers exchange visits and then perform religious rites, which this year should be avoided because of the spread of coronavirus.

As far as the table is concerned, there should be no shortage of water, eggs, candles and greenery. People help those in need, and according to tradition believers distribute milk and milk, symbolizing the cleansing of the body and soul.

On feast days the Bektashi plant flowers in their homes or place olive branches at the gates.

Although in our country the day of Sultan Nevruz is not celebrated with the same intensity as in the places above, this day marks an official holiday on our calendar. In addition, most Albanians do not forget to celebrate by setting the table with the March 22 symbol foods.

The traditional dishes of Nevruz are the pie with the coin inside, which according to tradition, which one finds from family members awaits a good year. The roast should not be lacking on the table and of course the soup.