Sizdah Bedar in Iran: Meaning, Traditions, and Celebration Guide
Sizdah Bedar in Iran is one of the most joyful and meaningful Persian traditions, celebrated on the 13th day of Nowruz, the Persian New Year. This ancient festival marks the official end of the Nowruz holidays and is deeply connected to nature, renewal, and letting go of negative energy.
On this day, Iranian families leave their homes, gather outdoors, and celebrate life with picnics, games, music, and symbolic rituals. Sizdah Bedar reflects Iran’s long cultural history and its deep respect for nature and seasonal renewal.
What Is the Meaning of Sizdah Bedar?
Sizdah Bedar literally means “getting rid of thirteen.” In Persian culture, the number 13 has traditionally been associated with bad luck. Sizdah Bedar symbolizes leaving misfortune behind by spending the day outdoors and reconnecting with nature.
This tradition encourages purification of the mind and spirit, allowing people to begin the new year with positivity, balance, and fresh energy.
What Do People Do on Sizdah Bedar in Iran?
On Sizdah Bedar, Iranians gather in parks, gardens, mountains, and open fields. Families bring food, rugs, and games, turning nature into a shared celebration space.
A key ritual is throwing away the Sabzeh—sprouted wheat or lentils from the Nowruz table—into flowing water. This act symbolizes releasing bad luck and negative energy from the past year.
Outdoor games, music, dancing, kite flying, and laughter fill the day, making Sizdah Bedar one of the happiest events in the Iranian calendar.
Sizdah Bedar and Zoroastrian Roots
The origins of Sizdah Bedar trace back to Zoroastrianism, the ancient religion of pre-Islamic Iran. Zoroastrian beliefs emphasize harmony with nature, especially earth and water.
Spending the 13th day outdoors was seen as a way to protect natural elements and honor the balance of life. While Sizdah Bedar today is largely secular, its spiritual roots remain deeply respected.
Table: Key Facts About Sizdah Bedar in Iran
| Aspect | Description |
| Date | 13th day of Nowruz (early April) |
| Main Purpose | Ending Nowruz & releasing bad luck |
| Main Activity | Outdoor picnics & nature gatherings |
| Key Ritual | Throwing Sabzeh into water |
| Cultural Origin | Ancient Persian & Zoroastrian beliefs |
| Modern Meaning | Joy, renewal, family bonding |
Traditional Foods on Sizdah Bedar
- Kebab – Grilled meat served with bread or rice
- Tahchin – Saffron rice with yogurt and chicken
- Fresh herbs – Basil, parsley, cilantro
- Fruits & nuts – Seasonal snacks for picnics
Food plays a central role in Sizdah Bedar, reflecting abundance, springtime, and gratitude.
FAQs About Sizdah Bedar in Iran
Why is Sizdah Bedar celebrated outdoors?
To avoid bad luck associated with the number 13 and reconnect with nature.
Is Sizdah Bedar only celebrated in Iran?
No. Iranian communities worldwide celebrate Sizdah Bedar.
What happens to the Sabzeh?
It is thrown into flowing water to symbolically release negativity.
Conclusion
Sizdah Bedar in Iran is a powerful reminder of renewal, joy, and humanity’s bond with nature. This ancient tradition continues to bring families together and encourages reflection, balance, and gratitude.
If you’d like to explore Persian culture and language more deeply, start learning Farsi with Danaa School and experience Iran’s rich heritage firsthand.
