Washington State’s Kazakh and Uzbek Communities to Celebrate Nawruz
Washington Kazakh and Uzbek communities honor Nawruz with April family festivities.
Seattle Tashkent Sister City Association Navruz celebration, 2023. Credit: Seattle Taskhent Sister City Association
Kazakh and Uzbek communities in Washington state are preparing to welcome spring with Nawruz celebrations in April, bringing traditional music, dance and cuisine to local audiences. The North American Kazakh Association will host its Nauryz festival on April 20, 2025, at Ella Baker Elementary School in Redmond, while the Seattle-Tashkent Sister City Association will celebrate Navro'z on April 12, 2025, at Shoreline Community College. Both events will showcase Central Asian heritage.
Nawruz: A Celebration of Renewal and Tradition
Nawruz, also known as Nauryz in Kazakh and Navro'z in Uzbek, marks the arrival of spring and renewal of life. Observed across Central Asia, the Middle East and parts of Eastern Europe, Nawruz symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity and unity. Communities gather to celebrate with traditional music, dance and food.
Kazakh Nauryz Celebration
NAKA’s Nauryz event will take place from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on April 20, 2025, featuring Central Asian cuisine, performances and family activities. "This is our third major initiative since NAKA was founded in May 2024," said Kerem Onat, President Advisor and Treasurer of NAKA. "Our mission is to create an inclusive space where Kazakh Americans and others can connect and celebrate cultural diversity."
North American Kazakh Association, Nauyrz celebration, 2024. Credit: North American Kazakh Association
Tickets are available on the North American Kazakh Association website until April 13, 2025. Prices are $40 for adults, $15 for youth and free for children under 11 and seniors.
Uzbek Navro'z Celebration
The STSCA Navro'z celebration, a tradition since its first event in 1991, will be held on April 12, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Shoreline Community College. Founded in 1974, the Seattle-Tashkent Sister City Association continues to honor Central Asian culture with this annual spring festival, featuring Uzbek cuisine, dance performances, a fashion show, a raffle, and a children’s corner.
Seattle-Tashkent Sister City Association, Navruz Celebration, 2016. Credit: Steve Shelton for AramcoWorld
A highlight will be the festive meal, including Uzbek plov and somsa. Guests can also enjoy displays of traditional clothing and interactive cultural experiences.
Tickets are available online. Prices are $55 for adults, $30 for youth and seniors and $20 for children. Supporter tickets are available for those who wish to contribute more.
A Growing Tradition in Washington State
Past Nawruz celebrations in Washington have drawn large crowds, reflecting the growing appreciation for Central Asian traditions. Attendees praise the events for their warm atmosphere, performances and food. Organizers hope this year’s festivities will continue fostering cultural exchange and unity.
As spring approaches, these celebrations offer a chance for people of all backgrounds to experience Central Asian culture and its message of renewal and togetherness.