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