New Year in Uzbekistan is one of the most cherished and widely celebrated holidays of the year. For Uzbeks, New Year is a time of joy, reflection, and togetherness, where the hustle and bustle of preparation begin well before the big day. Streets and homes are adorned with twinkling lights, colorful decorations, and towering New Year trees, creating a festive atmosphere that envelops cities.
Things to Do on New Year in Uzbekistan
1. Explore the Festive Markets
During the New Year season, markets and bazaars across Uzbekistan come alive with the spirit of the holiday. Vendors sell an array of festive items, from decorations and gifts to seasonal treats. Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent is particularly vibrant, offering a delightful experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
2. Visit the New Year Trees
New Year trees, adorned with lights and ornaments, are a central feature of the holiday decorations. These towering trees can be found in city squares and parks, where families gather to take pictures and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
3. Join the Midnight Celebrations
As midnight approaches on December 31st, people across Uzbekistan gather to welcome the New Year. Many families prefer to stay at home, enjoying a festive meal and exchanging gifts, while others head to public squares to hear the Tashkent chimes and watch fireworks light up the night sky.
4. Experience Traditional Uzbek Cuisine
New Year’s Eve in Uzbekistan is synonymous with a lavish feast. Families prepare an array of traditional dishes, including plov, shashlyk, and a variety of salads and sweets. The most unique tradition is the serving of watermelon, which if turns out to be sweet, it’s believed that the year ahead will be prosperous and joyful.
5. Take Part in New Year’s Customs
Uzbeks have several unique customs associated with New Year’s Eve. One popular tradition shared with Russia is to write down a wish on a piece of paper, burn it, and then mix the ashes into a glass of champagne, which is then drunk just before midnight. This ritual is believed to help make the wish come true in the coming year.
6. Enjoy Live Music and Dance
Many cafes, restaurants, and clubs like 7 Fridays and The Time Bar in Tashkent offer live music and dance performances as part of their New Year’s Eve celebrations. These events often feature popular local artists and provide an opportunity to dance the night away as you welcome the New Year in Uzbekistan.
Novruz: The Second New Year
While New Year celebrations in Uzbekistan are grand and festive, they are closely followed by another important holiday, Novruz. Celebrated on March 21st, Novruz marks the Persian New Year and the beginning of spring. This ancient holiday is steeped in tradition and is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Uzbekistan. Novruz symbolizes renewal, new beginnings, and the rejuvenation of nature, and is celebrated with various rituals, feasts, and community gatherings. People prepare traditional dishes, such as sumalak (a sweet wheat dish), and engage in activities that emphasize renewal and hope, such as cleaning homes and planting trees. Novruz is a time to celebrate life, nature, family, and friendship, making it a significant counterpart to the modern New Year celebrations.
From the lively markets and decorated streets to the unique traditions and delicious feasts, the holiday is a time of renewal and hope. Whether you're exploring the festive bazaars, enjoying a cultural performance, or sharing a midnight toast with loved ones, New Year in Uzbekistan offers a rich and unforgettable experience.