Sizdah Bedar: Iran's Joyful Outdoor Celebration of Spring

After weeks of celebrating the arrival of Nowruz—the Persian New Year—Iranians mark the final day of the festive period with a joyous outdoor celebration called Sizdah Bedar (سیزده بدر), or "Thirteen Outdoors." This vibrant tradition, held on the 13th day of Nowruz, is a time for families and communities to come together in nature, enjoy the spring weather, and bid farewell to the Nowruz festivities. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history, customs, and significance of Sizdah Bedar, an exuberant celebration that brings people into the embrace of nature and joy.

🌿 What is Sizdah Bedar?

Sizdah Bedar is celebrated on the 13th day of Nowruz, marking the end of the official Nowruz holiday period. The number 13 is considered unlucky in Persian culture, which is why Iranians traditionally leave their homes on this day to avoid bad luck and to refresh their spirits in nature. The tradition is deeply rooted in the idea of renewal, growth, and connection to nature, which are central themes of the Persian New Year celebration.

In ancient times, Sizdah Bedar was a way to mark the end of winter and the arrival of spring. The festival is a celebration of life, fertility, and the earth's cycles, drawing inspiration from the Persian agrarian lifestyle and Zoroastrian reverence for nature. Today, it remains a joyful day for families to spend time outdoors and participate in a variety of fun activities, from picnicking to playing games, …