Assyrians, Syriacs, Armenians celebrate Akitu in NE Syria
HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – Hundreds of Assyrians, Syriacs, and Armenians gathered on Tuesday in the village of Tel al-Wardiyat, near Tel Tamr in northern Hasakah, northeastern Syria, to celebrate the Babylonian-Assyrian New Year (Akitu), which falls on April 1 each year.
The event was organized by the Coordination and Consultative Committee of Assyrian-Syriac National Parties, which includes the Assyrian Democratic Party, the Syriac Union Party, and the Assyrian Democratic Organization.
Hiba Assia, head of the women’s division in the Assyrian Democratic Party, emphasized the significance of the celebration, stating, “This festival is one of the oldest in human history and represents the strongest and earliest calendar in Syria.”
Speaking to North Press, Assia expressed hopes that the coming year would mark a new beginning for Syria. “We wish for a year of renewal and rebirth—one that brings a decentralized Syria, inclusive of all its communities and sects, and filled with peace and security for everyone.”
She also voiced her hope that next year, expatriates would return to celebrate in the Khabur region as they did in the past, when Akitu festivities lasted for 12 days.
The celebration featured traditional Assyrian music and folk dances, preserving the rich cultural heritage of the community.