Alevitic New Year in Germany ― Date, History, and Details

Alevitic New Year in Germany

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Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of Alevitic New Year in Germany and why people celebrate or observe it.

History of Alevitic New Year in Germany and How to Celebrate/ Observe It

Alevitic New Year, also known as Red Wednesday, is celebrated on the first Wednesday of the month of March. It is a public holiday in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Alevitic New Year marks the beginning of the spring season and the end of winter. On this day, people dress in red clothing and exchange gifts with loved ones. Traditional foods such as red lentils, spinach and rice are eaten.

People also visit cemeteries to pay their respects to departed relatives. Red roses are placed on gravesites.

The Alevitic community in Germany is small, but the holiday is gaining popularity in recent years. Many Germans celebrate Alevitic New Year as a way to connect with their Turkish and Kurdish friends and neighbors.