NAVRUZ, THE ORIENTAL NEW YEAR

March 21 in Kyrgyzstan, as in the rest of Central Asia, celebrates the return of spring and the rebirth of nature. This festival, common to all Central Asian countries as well as Iran, Azerbaijan and Pakistan, dates back to the region's Zoroastrian traditions. It is celebrated with the family, but also in a very official way: in Bishkek, festivities and entertainment are held on Ala Too Square, and a large Ulaak Tartych is held at the racecourse.