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Naw-Ruz (Baha’i New Year)

A religious observance marking the Bahá'í New Year on the vernal equinox, symbolizing spiritual renewal and the arrival of spring as the first day of the Badí' calendar.

Saturday

March 2027

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEVernal Equinox

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYOther Religion

ORIGIN

Religious Origin

FOUNDING ENTITY

Bahá'u'lláh

FIRST OBSERVED

1873

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

Bahá'u'lláh, founder of the Bahá'í Faith, established Naw-Ruz as a holy day in the Kitáb-i-Aqdas around 1873, confirming the Badí' calendar instituted by the Báb in the 1840s. The Báb had designated Naw-Ruz as the "Day of God" marking the end of the Bahá'í fast.

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INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Let the spirit of renewal and unity soar high on March 20 with the celebration of Naw-Ruz, the Baha’i New Year! Rooted in the 19th-century teachings of Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Baha'i Faith, Naw-Ruz marks the completion of a 19-day period of fasting and prayer, bringing together Baha’is around the world in a celebration of unity and promise of a fresh start. It coincides with the spring equinox, symbolizing rebirth and renewal - the perfect time to let go of past mistakes and set audacious goals for the future. Come join in the festivities and inspiring rituals of this special day as we welcome a new year full of hope and joy. It's truly a time of excitement, reflection, and global togetherness!

TIMELINE

Naw-Ruz (Baha’i New Year) Timeline

Proclamation by Baha'u'llah

Baha'u'llah, founder of the Baha'i Faith, proclaimed his mission as God's most recent Messenger for this age.

Establishment of Naw-Ruz

In the same year, Baha'u'llah established Naw-Ruz as a time of renewal and unity in the Baha'i calendar.

Passing of Baha'u'llah

Upon Baha'u'llah's passing, his teachings continued to spread, including the observance of Naw-Ruz among Baha'is globally.

UN Recognition

Naw-Ruz gained further prominence as the Baha'i Faith grew and was recognised by United Nations as a non-governmental organisation (NGO).

Naw-Ruz in Iran

Despite ongoing struggles for religious freedom in Iran, Naw-Ruz continued to be celebrated by Baha'is in secret, demonstrating the spirit of resilience and unity of the Baha'i community.

Global Observance

Naw-Ruz is currently observed internationally by the Baha'i community and is recognised as a cultural event in many places across the globe.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Naw-Ruz (Baha’i New Year)

Organize a community feast

Since Naw-Ruz marks the end of a 19-day fast, it's traditional to celebrate with a community feast. Gather your friends, neighbors, and family for a large meal to honor this special time of year. Everyone can contribute a dish to create a variety of flavors and experiences.

START

Start a garden

Given that Naw-Ruz coincides with the spring equinox, now is the perfect time to start a garden or plant some flowers. It will serve as a symbolic act of growth and renewal, resonating with the essence of the day.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in outdoor activities

Enjoy the awakening of nature by organizing some outdoor activities. A picnic, outdoor games or sports, bird-watching or even a trek could be excellent ways to mark this day while enjoying the freshness that comes with spring.

CREATE

Create a promise tree

To symbolize the fresh start that Naw-Ruz represents, create a promise tree. Each person can write down a goal or commitment they're making for the new year on a piece of paper and hang it on a tree. This physical reminder can motivate everyone to keep their promise throughout the year.

ENGAGE

Engage in spiritual reflection

Dedicate some time to reflect on the spiritual meaning of Naw-Ruz. Reading the writings of Bahá'u'lláh, meditating, or praying together can create moments of peace and unity. This can strengthen connections and deepen understanding of the significance of this special day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Naw-Ruz (Baha’i New Year) is Important

It's a time of joy and celebration

Naw-Ruz is marked with festivities, joyous activities, and heart-warming rituals. Whether it's through a community feast, starting a garden, engaging in outdoor activities, creating a promise tree, or reflecting on the spiritual meaning of the day, it's a time of community excitement and personal reflection. These activities make Naw-Ruz a unique and enjoyable holiday.

It symbolizes renewal and fresh starts

Naw-Ruz, being aligned with the spring equinox, signifies rebirth and renewal. This gives all who participate the perfect opportunity to let go of past mistakes, set goals for the future, and start anew. It's a chance for everyone to refresh their lives, relationships, and mindsets.

Naw-Ruz fosters unity and togetherness

The celebration of Naw-Ruz brings together Baha’is from all around the world in an expression of unity and togetherness. This celebration helps foster global unity and highlights the Baha'i principle of the oneness of humanity, as people from all walks of life come together to welcome the new year.

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