In the Kurdistan Region, Rojava, Northern Kurdistan, and several European countries, Newroz celebrations took place. Special ceremonies were organized, with Kurds dressed in traditional attire participating in festivities that welcomed the Kurdish New Year. 

Although official ceremonies were limited in the Kurdistan Region due to regional circumstances, most governorates and autonomous administrations lit the Newroz fire, with citizens expressing hope that this year would bring an end to regional instability.

Kurdish leaders issued messages describing Newroz as a victory over oppression and a symbol of national resilience, emphasizing the need for political unity to safeguard regional stability.

Newroz, which marks the arrival of spring and renewal, occurs on the spring equinox (March 20 or 21). Its name means "New Day" in Kurdish. The holiday is rooted in the legend of Kawa the Blacksmith, who led a revolt against the tyrannical King Zuhak.

After defeating him, Kawa lit a bonfire on a mountaintop to symbolize freedom. This victory is believed to have heralded the arrival of spring, with the "Newroz fire" symbolizing triumph over oppression.

For Kurds, Newroz is more than a seasonal celebration; it is a profound symbol of cultural identity, resistance, and resilience. It embodies their enduring spirit and ongoing struggle for freedom and recognition. The holiday also acts as a unifying event, reinforcing Kurdish heritage, national pride, and collective memory of historical struggles.

Kirkuk holds large Newroz festival

In Kirkuk, however, the celebrations differed significantly. A large public festival was held, with citizens participating in festivities and displaying the Kurdistan flag.

Rojava Celebrates Newroz with Bonfire

In Rojava (Western Kurdistan), despite challenging weather conditions, some areas saw the lighting of the Newroz fire with participation from local citizens, who raised the Kurdistan flag and chanted slogans such as “Long live the Rojava resistance.”

Mazloum Abdi, General Commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces, lit the traditional Newroz bonfire alongside officials and community members.

Northern Kurdistan Marks Newroz with Hope for Peace

In Northern Kurdistan, this year's Newroz was marked by the beginning of peace process steps. Citizens are hopeful that the process will succeed and that the rights of the Kurdish people in Turkey will be secured.

Newroz in Northern Kurdistan 

Coinciding with the lighting of the Newroz fire, Kurdish communities across parts of Kurdistan and in some European countries gathered to light their fires and express hopes that the new year would bring the realization of their aspirations.