In Iran, many holidays are celebrated, with most rooted in Islamic traditions. Key events include Ramadan and the observances of Tassua and Ashura, which take place during the month of Muharram.

There are also several important national holidays in Iran tied to political events, like the founding of the Islamic Republic. However, the most cherished holiday is neither religious nor political—Nowruz, the Persian New Year, which has its roots in the ancient Zoroastrian tradition.

A Guide to the Iranian Calendar

Unlike Western countries, Iranians navigate multiple calendars. For daily life, they use the Shamsi Calendar, also known as the Solar Hijri calendar. This calendar, which begins in spring on the March equinox, is one of the oldest and most accurate, based on precise astronomical calculations. The first six months (Farvardin, Ordibehesht, Khordad, Tir, Mordad, and Sharivar) each have 31 days. The next five months (Mehr, Aban, Azar, Day, and Bahman) have 30 days, and the final month (Esfand) has either 29 or 30 days, depending on whether it’s a leap year.

In addition to the Solar Hijri calendar, many religious celebrations in Iran follow the Lunar Hijri calendar, often referred to as the Islamic calendar, which is widely used in Muslim countries. This calendar determines events like the start and end of Ramadan. It is based on the phases of the moon’s monthly cycles.

For practical reasons, Iranians are also accustomed to the Gregorian calendar, which is used to mark the dates of many international events.

Visiting Iran During the Holidays

If you’re planning to travel to Iran, it’s important to consider whether your travel dates will coincide with national holidays. During these times, many businesses may be closed, and some historical or cultural sites might also have reduced hours. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly! While some holidays last just a single day, others can significantly impact your travel. This is especially true for Nowruz, which includes several consecutive days off and is a popular time for Iranians to travel within the country. Expect places like Shiraz, Isfahan, and Qeshm to be particularly crowded during this period.

Conversely, many travelers tend to avoid visiting during Ramadan. During this month, restaurants and cafes remain closed until dawn, and overall economic activity slows down. Similarly, the month of Muharram, when Tassua and Ashura are observed, may not be the ideal time to visit, especially in more conservative cities like Kashan or Yazd, due to the numerous rituals that occur. However, experiencing these events can be quite fascinating—just ensure that your trip doesn’t coincide with too many national holidays.

Nowruz: Celebrating the Persian New Year

One of the most significant holidays in Iran is Nowruz, the Persian New Year, which falls on the Spring equinox, occurring on March 20th or 21st. The first four days (Farvardin 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th) are national holidays, during which Iranian families visit one another. Nowruz represents the most important holiday period in Iran, with most people returning to work and school after the 13th day, known as Sizdah Bedar or Nature’s Day, which typically falls on April 1st.

Nowruz is a celebration rooted in Zoroastrianism, observed in many countries across Western Asia, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Balkans. From ancient Persian kings to modern Iranian households, Nowruz features various rituals and symbols that honor the renewal of nature. It has even been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

Religious Celebrations in Iran

Iran has numerous religious holidays, primarily associated with Shia Islam, though some are recognized by both Shia and Sunni communities. Many of these observances commemorate the martyrdom or death of significant figures, such as the passing of Prophet Muhammad and the martyrdom of Imam Hassan, which occurs in September. Additionally, these holidays can celebrate the birthdays of important religious figures, like Imam Ali’s Birthday in January, which is also celebrated as Father’s Day in Iran.

Among these religious celebrations, some hold particular significance. One such event is Eid-e Fetr, celebrated across the Muslim world, marking the end of Ramadan. Another important holiday is Eid-e Ghorban, which occurs about two months after Ramadan and commemorates the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim. Additionally, Eid-al Ghadir is a major celebration for Shia Muslims, further enriching the religious tapestry of Iran.

Another significant month of celebration for Shia Muslims, in addition to Ramadan, is Muharram. Two key observances occur during this month: Tassoua and Ashura, which commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein in the Battle of Karbala, taking place on the 9th and 10th days of Muharram. Both Ashura and Tassoua are deeply meaningful holidays in Iran, and travelers visiting during this time can participate in the various ceremonies held across the country. Additionally, 40 days after Ashura, Arbaeen is observed, marking the conclusion of the mourning period for Imam Hussein.

It’s worth mentioning that weddings and similar celebrations are not permitted in Iran during the months of Ramadan, Muharram, and Safar, which follow Muharram.

National Holidays in 2024

National Holidays Related to Political Events

In addition to religious observances, Iran also has numerous national holidays linked to recent political and social events. One significant holiday is 22 Bahman, or Islamic Republic Day, celebrated on February 11th. This day marks the anniversary of the 1979 referendum that resulted in the overthrow of the Pahlavi Dynasty and the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Another significant national holiday is 15 Khordad, observed on June 9th. This day commemorates the demonstrations against the Shah that followed the arrest of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, marking the beginning of the Iranian Revolution of 1979.

Similarly, Oil Nationalization Day, celebrated in Iran, commemorates the nationalization of the oil industry in 1951 by Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh. This pivotal moment in Iran’s history marked the restoration of governmental control over foreign powers, particularly Great Britain. This event eventually led to the 1953 U.S.-led coup that resulted in the overthrow of Mohammad Mossadegh.

Finally, June 4th is observed as a national holiday in Iran to commemorate the death of Imam Khomeini.

National Holidays in 2024