🕊️ The Yazidi New Year

The Yazidi New Year, known as Seri Sal or Çarşema Sor (Red Wednesday), is one of the holiest and oldest holidays for the Yazidis, celebrated on the first Wednesday of April (different from the Gregorian calendar and usually falling in mid-April).

✨ Overview:

Name: Seri Sal (meaning "New Year") or "Red Wednesday."

Religion: Yazidi.

Date: The first Wednesday of April (usually in the second week of April).

Location: Celebrated primarily in Lalish (the sacred temple in northern Iraq) and the Yazidi regions of Iraq, Syria, Turkey, and Armenia.

🎊 Rituals and Symbols:

Dyeing eggs: Eggs symbolize the creation of the universe from the cosmic egg. Yazidis decorate their homes with colored eggs and flowers.

Flowers placed on doors: Especially daffodils, symbolize fertility and renewal.

Visiting graves: To honor spirits and make vows.

Lighting fires: To symbolize light, creation, and divine energy.

Wearing traditional, colorful clothing: To celebrate life and the beginning of a new year.

Hanging broken eggshells: In some regions, eggshells are hung over doors as a symbol of protection from evil.

🧿 Religious and spiritual meaning:

This day is believed to mark the creation of the universe and the angels, especially the Peacock Angel, who holds a central place in the Yazidi faith.

It marks the beginning of creation and cosmic balance, and the dawning of life after winter.

💬 Cultural notes:

The holiday is an official holiday in some areas of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq inhabited by Yazidis.

It is celebrated with a deep spiritual dimension, along with a social and festive aspect.

🚌 One-Day Tour: Yazidi New Year Celebration at Lalish Temple

Departure: Erbil to Lalish

Time: 7:00 AM

Transportation: Private car or mini tour bus (Approx. 2.5 to 3 hours drive)

Route: Erbil → Shekhan → Lalish Valley (Scenic rural landscapes along the way)

Arrival at Lalish Temple

Estimated Time of Arrival: 10:00 AM

Activities:

Enter the sacred temple (Note: Shoes must be removed before entering)

Guided tour of the key spiritual sites inside the temple, such as Kaniya Spî (the holy spring), the oil room, and the tomb of Sheikh Adi

Observe or participate in special New Year rituals: lighting candles, placing flowers, hanging colored egg shells

Capture the vibrant atmosphere (where photography is permitted)

Lunch & Festive Celebration

Time: 1:00 PM

Location: Temple courtyard or a nearby Yazidi village

Experience:

Enjoy traditional Yazidi dishes such as bulgur, yogurt, local bread, dolma, and sweets

Watch or join in the traditional circular dances (govend) accompanied by def (frame drum) and tambur

Learn about the symbolism of the festival directly from local community members

Adorn yourself with daffodils and view beautifully colored eggs

Free Time & Relaxation

Time: 3:30 PM

Walk around, talk with locals, take photos, or simply reflect in the spiritual serenity of Lalish

Return to Erbil

Departure: Around 4:30–5:00 PM

Estimated Arrival: 7:30 PM

📌 Useful Tips:

Dress modestly and comfortably

Bring a light jacket, snacks, and water

Be respectful of cultural and religious customs

Only take photos where allowed

Engage with locals kindly and curiously