International Nowruz Day in Turkmenistan: A celebration of joy and unity

On March 21, Turkmenistan enthusiastically welcomed the National Spring Holiday—the International Nowruz Day. This ancient festival, inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, serves as a vivid embodiment of the spiritual values, peace-loving nature, and traditions of good-neighborliness of the Turkmen people.

The main festivities unfolded in the "Nowruz Ýaýlasy" valley, located in the Ak Bugdaý district of the Ahal region. The traditional white yurts and reconstructed imagery of ancient cities along the Great Silk Road offered guests a journey into the glorious history of the Turkmen nation. As President Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasized in his festive address, this year’s Nowruz, coinciding with the landmark 35th anniversary of the country’s Independence, inspires the nation to reach new heights.

The event showcased the finest examples of Turkmen craftsmanship, including carpet weaving, the art of embroidery, and traditional jewelry making. The valley echoed with the melodic songs of bagshis, lively performances by folklore ensembles, and the mesmerizing Kushtdepdi dance. A true highlight of the celebration was the spectacular performance by the National Equestrian Games group "Galkynyş".

Tall swings, gripping wrestling matches between palvans, and traditional children's games—all essential elements of the spring festival—added a unique color to the celebrations. Guests were treated to authentic national dishes prepared by master chefs, which graced the bountiful festive dastarkhans.

The festivities at "Nowruz Ýaýlasy" concluded with a gala concert featuring master artists. This atmosphere of joy and inspiration was felt not only in the capital but also in the newly inaugurated city of Arkadag and across all regions of the country.