Although most countries in the world celebrate it on March 21, Sultan Nowruz, or as it is otherwise known, the Persian New Year in Albania is celebrated on March 22.

What is Nowruz Day?

Novruz otherwise known as (Noorouz, Nooruz, Navruz, Nauroz 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 with the departure of winter and the arrival of spring. Novruz is celebrated in the Middle East, Central Asia, India, Georgia, Albania, etc.

Usually this holiday lasts three days. Bektashi believers exchange visits with each other and then perform religious rites, which should be avoided this year as well, due to the spread of the coronavirus.

As for the table, there should be no shortage of water, eggs, candles and greens. People help those in need and according to tradition believers distribute milk and syrups, which symbolize the purification of body and soul.

On holidays, Bektashis plant flowers in their homes or place olive branches at the entrances to the gates.

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

The traditional dishes of Nowruz are the pie with the coin inside, which according to tradition, whoever finds it from family members expects a good year. There should be no lack of roasted meat on the table and of course sultas and ashura.