Sizdah Bedar
When is Sizdah Bedar 2026?
Sizdah Bedar 2026 will be celebrated on Thursday, April 2, 2026, marking the 13th day of Nowruz
What is Sizdah Bedar?
Sizdah Bedar, meaning “getting rid of thirteen,” symbolizes the end of the Nowruz (Persian New Year) celebrations and a return to ordinary life. The 13th day of Farvardin marks a connection with nature and is believed to dispel negativity and misfortune.
It reflects themes of renewal, cleansing, and embracing spring’s vitality, rooted in ancient traditions. The day’s meaning also ties to the belief in warding off evil spirits and starting the New Year with a fresh and positive mindset. Often referred to as “Nature’s Day,” Sizdah Bedar represents the triumph of spring over winter, celebrating growth, unity, and Iran’s enduring cultural heritage.
Sizdah Bedar Traditions
Outdoor Picnics: Families and friends spend the day in nature, enjoying picnics to celebrate the end of Nowruz.
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Throwing Away Sabzeh: The Haftsin sabzeh (sprouted greens) is discarded into running water, symbolizing the removal of bad luck and illness.
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Grass Knotting: Single men and women, usually women, tie blades of grass, wishing for love and marriage in the coming year.
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Playing Games: Traditional games and activities bring fun and excitement, fostering joy and laughter.
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Community Gatherings: Singing, dancing, and sharing special foods enhance the sense of unity and celebration.
Sizdah Bedar Origin and History
The origins of Sizdah Bedar are rooted in Zoroastrianism, where the number 13 was seen as unlucky, and spending the 13th day outdoors symbolized the need to ward off misfortune. The term "Sizdah" translates to thirteen, and "Bedar" means to get rid of, representing the cleansing of negativity and bad luck.
In ancient Iran, this day was closely linked to the deity Tir, associated with rain and fertility, making it a time to celebrate nature’s renewal. Tir, depicted as a horse, was believed to bring rain, prosperity, and abundance to the land, ensuring the success of crops and the wellbeing of the community. The Zoroastrian emphasis on harmony with nature and the elements further reinforced the importance of this day as a time to honor the balance between humans and their environment.​
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One of the key rituals, throwing the Haftsin sabzeh into running water, stems from the belief that the sabzeh absorbed misfortunes, and discarding it returned negative energy to nature. Spending the day in green spaces symbolized harmony with the environment and was believed to ward off evil spirits. Over time, Sizdah Bedar evolved into a cultural celebration marking the end of Nowruz (Persian New Year) and the beginning of a return to daily life.
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By gathering outdoors, sharing meals, and engaging in joyful activities, Iranians honor their connection to nature and embrace renewal. Today, Sizdah Bedar remains a vibrant tradition blending ancient spiritual practices with modern cultural values.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sizdah Bedar?
Sizdah Bedar, meaning "getting rid of thirteen," is an Iranian festival celebrated on the 13th day of Farvardin that marks the end of Nowruz celebrations and symbolizes renewal, cleansing, and embracing spring's vitality.
When is Sizdah Bedar 2026?
Sizdah Bedar 2026 will be celebrated on Thursday, April 2, 2026
Why is it called Sizdah Bedar?
The name translates to "getting rid of thirteen," with "Sizdah" meaning thirteen and "Bedar" meaning to get rid of, representing the cleansing of negativity and bad luck associated with the number 13.
What are the main traditions of Sizdah Bedar?
Key traditions include outdoor picnics in nature, throwing away the Haftsin sabzeh into running water, grass knotting for wishes of love and marriage, playing traditional games, and community gatherings with singing and dancing.
What is the significance of throwing away sabzeh?
The Haftsin sabzeh is discarded into running water because it is believed to have absorbed misfortunes during Nowruz, and throwing it away symbolizes the removal of bad luck and illness.
What is the origin of Sizdah Bedar?
Sizdah Bedar is rooted in Zoroastrianism, where the number 13 was seen as unlucky and spending the 13th day outdoors symbolized warding off misfortune. The day was also linked to the deity Tir, associated with rain and fertility.
What is the significance of grass knotting?
Single men and women, usually women, tie blades of grass together while wishing for love and marriage in the coming year.
Why is Sizdah Bedar called Nature's Day?
Sizdah Bedar is often referred to as "Nature's Day" because it represents the triumph of spring over winter and celebrates growth, unity, and harmony with the environment.