As the joyous spring festival of Nowruz nears its culmination with the traditional celebration of Sizdeh Bedar, many Iranian families are preparing to observe the occasion in an exclusive manner this year, due to its overlap with the holy month of Ramadan.

Sizdeh Bedar, the 13th day of Nowruz, typically sees masses of families flocking to parks and green spaces for outdoor picnics and merrymaking. However, this year’s observance will witness a departure from the usual festivities, as many families plan to pitch tents and gather for iftar, the evening meal to break the fast during Ramadan, in these scenic locales.

With the convergence of Sizdeh Bedar and Ramadan, the majority of Iranian households are adapting their traditions to honor both occasions simultaneously. This unique combination of customs reflects the cultural harmony and reverence for tradition deep-rooted within Iranian society.

Maryam, 32, a housewife, said to the Tehran Times: “I’m thrilled to celebrate Sizdeh Bedar in the park this year, especially with Ramadan coinciding. It’s a beautiful opportunity to connect with nature and our spirituality in a serene setting.”

Mehdi, 45, a businessman: “For our family, Sizdeh Bedar has always been about enjoying the outdoors and soaking up the sunshine. With Ramadan upon us, combining iftar with our traditional picnic feels like a natural extension of our celebrations.”

Sara, 28, who is a teacher, said: “As a young couple, my husband and I look forward to Sizdeh Bedar every year. This time, with Ramadan, it’s even more special.”

Hossein, 63, a retiree: “I’ve been celebrating Sizdeh Bedar for as long as I can remember, but this year feels particularly meaningful. It’s cheering to see people coming together, as many of them struggle with economic hardship, to share in this tradition.”

Zahra, 21, a university student: “For me, Sizdeh Bedar has always been about making memories with friends and family. This year, with Ramadan coinciding, we will go to a park near home early in the morning and stay there till the end of the day. Breaking fast surrounded by lush greenery adds an extra layer of peace and tranquility to the experience.”

In anticipation of this special occasion, parks across the country are being prepared to accommodate the influx of families. Municipal authorities have made arrangements to ensure the availability of essential amenities such as restroom facilities, trash bins, and designated areas for tent pitching. Additionally, security measures have been bolstered to guarantee the safety and well-being of all participants, with increased patrols and surveillance in popular picnic spots.

For many Iranians, the prospect of celebrating Sizdeh Bedar amidst the spiritual atmosphere of Ramadan holds profound significance. It is seen as an opportunity to foster a sense of unity and solidarity among communities, transcending cultural and religious boundaries. As families come together to share in the joy of both occasions, they embrace the spirit of compassion that characterizes this time of renewal and reflection.

Moreover, the convergence of Sizdeh Bedar and Ramadan highlights the harmonious coexistence of diverse traditions within the fabric of Iranian society, where celebrations and rituals, for centuries, have shaped a shared heritage and collective memory.

AFM