Sizdah Bedar is or Nature Day an Iranian festival that takes place on the 13th day of the Persian New Year.
Nature Day, or Sizdah Bedar, is a traditional Iranian festival that marks the 13th day of the Persian New Year (Nowruz), which usually falls on April 2nd or 1st in a leap year. This event is celebrated by millions of Iranians worldwide and has a significant place in Iranian culture and history.
The term “Sizdah” means thirteen, and “Bedar” translates to getting rid of, denoting the tradition of spending the day outdoors to avoid bad luck associated with the number thirteen. On this day, families and friends gather to picnic in the great outdoors, from city parks to the countryside, as a means to enjoy nature and cleanse themselves of any negative energies from the past year.
Choose Your Spot Early
Parks and countryside spots can become crowded, as it’s a popular time for picnicking. To find the perfect spot, arrive early or scout locations the day before.
Participate in the Traditions
Engage with locals to learn about Sizdah Bedar customs, such as knotting blades of grass to hope for good luck in life and love or throwing green sprouts into running water to symbolize the release of bad energy.
Prepare for a Full Day Out
Pack picnic essentials, including a blanket, food, and drinks. Iranians often prepare kebabs, rice dishes, and various Persian treats for their outings.
Respect Nature
While Sizdah Bedar is all about celebrating the great outdoors, it’s crucial to maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the environment. Leave no trace behind to preserve the beauty of Iran’s natural landscapes.
Capture the Moments
Nature Day offers a myriad of photogenic scenes. Keep your camera ready, but also ensure to experience the moment beyond the lens.
Use Local Services
Consider using OrientTrips for hassle-free transport services to and from your chosen Nature Day destination. They can help you find the most scenic and less crowded locations to enjoy the day.
Event Date:
For the specific date of this event and a full rundown of Iran’s public holidays, visit this link.
