Zoroastrian Festivals
Sacred celebrations marking the religious year, from Nowruz to the six seasonal Gahambars
Major Festivals
6 Festivals21
Mar
Nowruz نوروز
The Zoroastrian New Year
The holiest day, celebrated at the spring equinox. Marks creation's renewal and the triumph of light over darkness. Features the Haft-Sin table, fire jumping, and family gatherings.
Highest Holy Day
26
Mar
Khordad Sal
Birthday of Zarathustra
Celebrates the birth of Prophet Zarathustra. Jashan ceremonies and special prayers are performed at fire temples to honor the founder of the faith.
Prophet's Birthday
1
Jul
Tiragan
Festival of Tishtrya
Festival of the rain deity Tishtrya (Sirius star). Celebrates water and rain with splashing, tying rainbow-colored bands, and reciting Yasht 8.
Water Festival
2
Oct
Mehregan
Festival of Mithra
Second most important festival after Nowruz. Honors Mithra, yazata of covenant, light, and justice. An autumn harvest celebration of friendship and truth.
Autumn Festival
30
Jan
Sadeh
Festival of Fire
Fire festival held 50 days before Nowruz. Celebrates King Hushang's discovery of fire. Large bonfires are lit to drive away winter's darkness.
Fire Festival
26
Dec
Zartosht No-Diso
Death Anniversary of Zarathustra
Day of remembrance and reflection on the Prophet's life, teachings, and eternal legacy to humanity.
Commemoration
The Six Gahambars
Seasonal FestivalsRemembrance
10
Days
Fravardigan (Muktad)
All Souls Days
The 10-day period before Nowruz when the Fravashis (guardian spirits) of the deceased visit earth. Prayers and offerings are made for ancestors.
Ancestor Remembrance