March Equinox in Turkey

The March Equinox, also known as the Spring or Vernal Equinox, marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. In Turkey, it typically occurs on March 20th or 21st when the sun crosses the celestial equator moving northward, resulting in nearly equal day and night lengths.

Historical Significance

In ancient times, various civilizations within what is now modern-day Turkey celebrated the equinoxes and solstices as significant astronomical events. The Hittites, Urartians, Phrygians, and other Anatolian civilizations had festivals and rituals associated with seasonal changes.

Nevruz Celebrations

One of the key traditions associated with the March Equinox in Turkey is Nevruz (or Nowruz), which has deep historical roots that predate even the arrival of Turkic peoples in Anatolia. It is recognized as a symbol of renewal and rebirth.

Nevruz has been inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for several countries including Turkey. It celebrates nature's awakening and is infused with various cultural practices:

• Festivities: People participate in communal meals, music performances, folk dances, and outdoor activities.
• Bonfires: Lighting bonfires is a common practice symbolizing purification and a wish to leave behind troubles from the past year.
• Cooking Special Dishes: Preparing traditional foods like 'baklava' or 'kutuk,' which are shared among neighbors and family members.
• Visiting Elders: Paying respect to elders by visiting them at their homes is considered an important part of Nevruz.

While not an official public holiday across all of Turkey, Nevruz has a particular significance among Turkish communities with Central Asian heritage and among Kurdish citizens who observe it widely.

Modern Observations

Today, while some people continue to observe traditional practices related to Nevruz on this day, for many others across Turkey it simply marks a change in seasons. Signs of spring are welcomed with picnics outside as weather permits or by enjoying seasonal foods that highlight fresh ingredients available after winter.