WANA (Apr 02) – Sizdah Bedar, the thirteenth day of Farvardin (the first month of the Persian calendar), is one of the traditional Nowruz celebrations. In Iran’s official calendars, this day is named “Nature Day” and is recognized as a public holiday. Some believe that people should leave their homes on Sizdah Bedar to ward off bad luck and let nature absorb any negativity. With this day, the Nowruz festivities come to an end.

 

In European culture, the number 13 has long been considered unlucky. Even with scientific advancements, many Europeans still hold superstitions related to this number—comparable to Eastern beliefs. Examples include the fear of black cats bringing bad luck, avoiding walking under ladders, believing that placing keys on the kitchen table is inauspicious, or seeing horseshoes as symbols of good fortune.

 

However, in Iranian culture, the only association with the number 13 is its indivisibility, which makes it seem somewhat “stubborn” rather than unlucky! Iranians do not observe Sizdah Bedar to escape misfortune but to break stagnation and embrace a fresh start. According to ancient Persian beliefs, the world was created in a 12,000-year cycle, which is why the first twelve days of spring were celebrated. On the thirteenth day, people would go out into nature to bid farewell to these festivities and prepare for the new year ahead.

Iranians gather at a park on Nature Day in Tehran, Iran, April 2, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Sizdah Bedar: A Bond Between Humanity, Nature, and Joy

On this day, cities across Iran take on a different atmosphere. Families leave their homes, set up picnics, cook Ash Reshteh (a traditional Persian noodle soup), and fill nature with laughter and play.

 

Some Traditions of Sizdah Bedar:

Tying Grass Knots: Young people tie knots in blades of grass while making wishes for happiness and good fortune, hoping for a bright future.

 

Releasing Grass into Water: This ritual serves as an offering to Anahita, the goddess of water, symbolizing the farewell to past hardships.

 

Games and Festivities: From traditional competitions to music and dance, everything on this day is infused with joy and celebration.

 

Iranians gather at a park on Nature Day in Tehran, Iran, April 2, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Sizdah Bedar: A Celebration That Endures

Although this tradition has evolved over the centuries, its spirit remains vibrant and alive. Sizdah Bedar is more than just a festival—it carries a message of renewal, hope, and the eternal connection between humans and nature. Perhaps this is the secret to its longevity: the reminder that life flows on, and every 13th of Farvardin is another chance for a fresh start.