April 2

Sizdah Be-dar

Experience Persian tradition at its finest this Sizdah Be-dar, full of family, nature, and fun! Keep the 13th day unlucky no more.

Yearly Date

13th Day of Farvardin

Observed in

Iran

Introduction

Mark your calendars for April 1, as we prepare to celebrate the joyous Persian tradition of Sizdah Be-dar! This holiday takes place on the 13th day of the Persian New Year, also known as Nowruz, and is steeped in rich history dating back thousands of years. Traditionally, families mark this day by spending time outdoors, enjoying nature's beauty and indulging in festive picnics. In fact, Sizdah Be-dar literally translates to 'getting rid of 13', and is regarded as a way to avoid misfortune and bad luck associated with the number 13. Let's rejoice in the spirit of togetherness, feast on delectable Persian cuisine, and say goodbye to the unluckiness of thirteen this Sizdah Be-dar!

Sizdah Be-dar Timeline

550 BC

Establishment of Persian Empire

Cyrus the Great established the Persian Empire, where traditions like Sizdah Be-dar were born and practiced.

300 BC

Spread of Persian Culture

The celebrations of Sizdah Be-dar spread along with Persian culture to neighboring countries during this period.

700 AD

Influence of Islam

The conversion to Islam by Persians influenced the nature of Sizdah Be-dar, but did not prevent its continued practice.

1800s

Documented Celebrations

Travelers from the West documented Sizdah Be-dar celebrations, spreading awareness of this holiday to Europe and America.

1979

Iranian Revolution

Despite political upheavals like the Iranian Revolution, Iranians worldwide continued to celebrate Sizdah Be-dar as a symbol of cultural heritage.

2000s

Global Recognition

With growing Persian diaspora communities worldwide, Sizdah Be-dar is recognized and celebrated in many parts of the world.

How to Celebrate Sizdah Be-dar

1 Picnic in the great outdoors

As is traditional on Sizdah Be-dar, pack up a picnic with your family and friends and head to your local park, beach, or even your own backyard! Bringing dishes like sabzi polo (herbed rice), grilled kebabs, and ash-e reshteh (noodle soup) will make the picnic even more authentic.

2 Return a sprouted sabzeh to nature

During Nowruz, it's common to grow a plate of sabzeh (wheat grass) as a symbol of new beginnings. On Sizdah Be-dar, tie the sabzeh and throw it into open water as part of the 'Getting Rid of Thirteen' tradition.

3 Celebrate with traditional games

Bring traditional Persian games like backgammon, chess, and marbles to your Sizdah Be-dar celebrations. It’s a great way to involve everyone and keep the festivities entertaining.

4 Learn and share Persian poetry

Persian culture is rich with poets and their wisdom-filled verses. Ahead of Sizdah Be-dar, learn a few poems from the likes of Rumi or Hafez and recite them as a part of your celebration.

5 Make a lucky knot for romance

Still single? Then this tradition is for you! Find a patch of grass, make 13 knots in it while keeping silent and make a wish. According to legend, this act will help hasten a marriage proposal.

Why We Love Sizdah Be-dar

Embraces Nature and Outdoor Activities

Sizdah Be-dar presents a unique opportunity to not only embrace Persian tradition, but also to enjoy nature and the great outdoors. From picnicking in a beautiful locale to sprouting wheat grass as a symbol of new beginnings, the festivities are not just fun, but incredibly enriching.

Celebration of Persian Culture and Traditions

Sizdah Be-dar allows us to explore and appreciate Persian culture and traditions. Whether it's through preparing traditional dishes or playing classic Persian games, the holiday is a deep dive into a culture filled with rich history and customs.

An Opportunity for Personal and Community Bonding

Sizdah Be-dar isn't just a celebration, it's also a time for families and communities to come together. The collaborative effort in partaking in traditional practices, sharing dishes, and playing games, creates stronger bonds and builds unity.