Tsagaan Sar, also known as the Mongolian Lunar New Year, is the most important traditional holiday in Mongolia. Celebrated as the end of the harsh winter and the beginning of a new year, Tsagaan Sar is filled with ancient rituals, cultural symbols, and family traditions rooted in centuries of history.
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The Origins of Tsagaan Sar – Mongolian Lunar New Year
The celebration of Tsagaan Sar has a long and rich history. Before the 13th century, Mongolians marked the Lunar New Year in autumn. However, in 1216, legendary emperor Genghis Khan officially declared Tsagaan Sar as a spring celebration to align with the lunar-solar calendar. Since then, the holiday has symbolized spiritual renewal, peace, and the hope of a fruitful year ahead.
Tsagaan Sar has deep roots in Shamanistic traditions. In ancient times, people wore white garments, rode white horses, and offered dairy products to the gods – acts symbolizing purity, gratitude, and reverence for nature.
Preparations for Tsagaan Sar
Preparations begin nearly a month in advance. Families thoroughly clean their homes and livestock shelters to remove bad luck and welcome a fresh start. Special dishes like Buuz (steamed dumplings) and Ul Boov (layered biscuits) are prepared in large quantities.
Traditional Mongolian clothing, especially the Deel, is cleaned and readied for the New Year. Wearing it represents respect for heritage and a spiritual connection to ancestors.
Bituun – Lunar New Year’s Eve
The day before Tsagaan Sar is known as Bituun, which literally means “no moon.” It’s the time to complete unfinished tasks and prepare for renewal. Families gather for a feast featuring lamb dishes, fermented mare’s milk known as Airag, rice with curds, and steaming dumplings.
A key tradition on Bituun is the arrangement of Ul Boov into stacked odd-numbered layers, decorated with dairy products. In addition, families place three pieces of ice and hay at the doorway, inviting the protective spirit Baldan Lhamo to bless the home.
Tsagaan Sar – The First Day of the Mongolian Lunar New Year
The first day of Tsagaan Sar is also called the White Moon Day. People rise before dawn, dress in fresh, clean clothes, and prepare to greet the new year. Men often hike up the nearest hill to witness the first sunrise, a ritual believed to bring good fortune. Meanwhile, women brew suutei tsai (milk tea) as an offering to the gods and spirits of the land.
Visiting family elders is essential. During visits, Mongolians perform the Zolgolt greeting ritual. The younger person raises both arms with palms up, and the elder places their arms on top, symbolizing blessing and respect. They greet each other with “Amar baina uu?” – “Are you well?” – followed by a traditional sniff-kiss on the cheeks.
Celebrating Tsagaan Sar
The Tsagaan Sar holiday lasts three days, though the first 15 days of the lunar month are spiritually significant. On the seventh day, known as the Day of Rest, people stay indoors. Many also visit Buddhist monasteries to pray, meditate, and receive blessings for the new year.
The celebration strengthens family bonds, promotes cultural heritage, and unites generations. Through Tsagaan Sar, the people of Mongolia pass on values of gratitude, respect, and harmony.
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