New Year in Uzbekistan — Traditions & Celebrations
The people of Uzbekistan are lucky — they get to celebrate New Year twice: on January 1st and on March 21st. In winter, they celebrate the arrival of the calendar year, and in spring, Navruz — the arrival of spring and the new year according to the astronomical solar calendar.
In December, Christmas trees are set up across the country, shop windows are decorated, and streets are lit up with garlands. Children eagerly await gifts from Korbobo (Grandfather Frost) and his granddaughter Korkiz (Snow Maiden).
Tashkent traditionally becomes the center of the festivities — it is here that the country's main tree rises, drawing crowds from every corner of Uzbekistan who come to stroll around it. But the tree isn't the only draw for the country's residents: the capital hosts New Year fairs and concert venues, and on the festive night, both adults and children enjoy a magnificent fireworks display.
For the youngest residents of Uzbekistan, the square by the Tashkent Circus comes alive. Breathtaking rides, cheerful costumed performers, and endless stalls of sweets make the circus square the most sought-after spot for children to visit.
Adults have plenty to enjoy too: theaters across the country put on festive programs, while restaurants and cafés offer New Year's shows.
The weather is favorable for walks: by late December, temperatures usually hover around zero or slightly above. Snow falling on December 31st is considered a New Year's miracle. When it does, people of all ages head outside to crunch through the long-awaited snow, build a snowman together as a family, and catch snowflakes.
Uzbekistan is the ideal country for ringing in the New Year. And that's not just our opinion. For several years now, various foreign publications have included Uzbekistan among the top 10 countries for travel, especially during the New Year holidays.
New Year in Uzbekistan is the perfect combination of vibrant events and strolls in comfortable weather.