Culture

Akre prepares for Newroz celebrations

"The Newroz celebrations in Akre will be held on March 20 under the direct supervision of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and in the presence of consuls, representatives of countries and thousands of guests," Akre Governor said.

Kurdistan 24 2024/03/18 12:41

A number of men hold lit torches as they climb on a mountain in the Kurdistan Region Akre town on the eve of Kurdish New Year Newroz, March 20, 2022. (Photo: Safin Hamed/AFP)

Kurdistan Newroz Akre

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The high committee for the preparation of the Newroz celebration in Akre which is supervised by Dilawar Harki, Governor of Akre on Monday announced in a press conference that they are preparing for Newroz celebrations.

Harki also revealed that the security forces had made full preparations for the ceremony.

"Civil defense teams will be deployed throughout the city for any emergency," he added.

Newroz celebrations in Akre typically involve torchlight processions up the mountains, followed by a huge fireworks display to music, as people descend from the mountains.

Additionally, many locals, often children, add to the festive atmosphere by setting off their own firecrackers and fireworks.

Moreover, many locals don traditional Kurdish clothing and enjoy picnics in the scenic surroundings.

The Kurdish town of Akre, located in the southeast province of Duhok, is known for its picturesque setting between three mountains and its historic houses built on top of each other, which create a striking visual effect.

The city was part of the province of Nineveh until the Kurdish uprising of March 1991, when it officially became part of the Duhok province under the Kurdistan Region.

Akre has a rich history, dating back to ancient times. Historically, the town has been inhabited by Muslims, Jews, and Christians. That diversity remains even to this day.

The town is known for the Sile and Sipa waterfalls. Other attractions include the shrine of Abdul Aziz Al-Jilani, the Mary Church, Zarka Spring, Gundik Cave, Girbish Springs, Zanta Valley, and the temple of Zoroaster.

Today, Akre is a vibrant city with a thriving local culture and picturesque landscape, including restaurants serving traditional Kurdish food, local ice cream, and beautiful mountains.