'Capital of Newroz'

Nearly 88,000 attend Newroz celebrations in Akre

2025-03-21 | 16:28

AKRE — An estimated 88,000 people gathered in Akre on Thursday evening to celebrate Newroz, according to local officials, marking one of the largest turnouts in recent years as the town continues its tradition as the symbolic capital of the Kurdish New Year.

The celebration took place on March 20, with residents and visitors from across the Kurdistan Region and beyond traveling to Akre to take part in the festivities.

Local authorities told 964media that participants came from both inside and outside the region to witness the ceremonial lighting of the Newroz fire on Mount Kale, a longstanding tradition in Akre. As in previous years, the event drew massive crowds, reinforcing the town’s reputation as a central hub for Newroz festivities.

Officials also said that 2,500 torches were prepared for the climb up Mount Kale, where the ceremonial fire is lit. Reaching the site requires climbing 340 steps, making it both a symbolic and physical journey for participants.

This year’s Newroz celebration coincided with the holy month of Ramadan, making the large turnout especially notable. Despite the fasting period, thousands gathered after sunset to observe the holiday, which holds deep cultural and national significance for Kurds.