Source: CIA World factbook, 2004

The Country of Toasts

Azerbaijan, an ancient country in the Caucasus, is very rich in traditions that are passed on from one generation to another. It is a country where traditions and culture are, to some extent, superior to official laws. Perhaps that is why, at times when the government in Azerbaijan is having trouble resolving an issue, the president of the country appeals to the agh sakkals - prominent and respected people in society - to help find a solution to the problem. Agh sakkal literally means "white beard." Usually older people who act and think wisely are granted this honorable title. However, they do not necessarily have to have white beards to be called so. The young very often go to their kin agh sakkals for help or advice. For instance, at the request of a young man, an agh sakkal could visit a young woman's parents and ask them to bless the couple for marriage. Also, if a respected woman throws her handkerchief in between two people who are fighting, the fight should immediately stop.

Foreigners who happen to visit Azerbaijan are always amazed by the hospitality and friendliness of the Azerbaijanis. This hospitality stems from an old tradition to welcome strangers and share meals and shelter with them. Guests are always welcome in Azerbaijan and are treated to the best food available in the household. However, it is customary to let a host know in advance before coming to his house because the cuisine in Azerbaijan is very sophisticated and many dishes require long preparation. At a dinner party, the hostess is usually very busy serving various dishes and beverages while the host honors his guests with long toasts, a tradition in many of the countries of the Caucasus. In their turn, the guests are always welcome to propose toasts in honor of the host and his family.

Novruz

The Azerbaijanis are proud of their customs and look forward to participating in the holiday celebrations throughout the year. Perhaps the most joyful holiday is Novruz, the New Year, which falls on March 21 with the arrival of spring. For two weeks before Novruz, musicians and dancers perform in the streets to the delight of children and grown-ups alike. On the last Wednesday before Novruz, children in rural areas build bonfires. Then everyone jumps across the fire, asking for blessings of good fortune and health. In towns, children knock on doors and leave empty hats by them to receive sweets - nuts, raisins, and cookies made especially for Novruz. On Novruz Eve (March 20), all families in Azerbaijan assemble in their houses to celebrate at a table decorated with many traditional meals. It is strongly believed that lots of food on Novruz Eve brings prosperity and wealth in the coming year.

Spring and Summer Holidays

The arrival of spring is a happy time for children too. They look forward to the first sunny days after the windy and sometimes harsh winter. Now they will be able to play hop-scotch, soccer and other games with their friends in the neighborhood. Soon summer vacation will begin. In the summer, the weather in Azerbaijan gets nice, and the children of Baku enjoy spending their vacations with their families at baghs - bungalows located near the numerous beaches along the Caspian Sea. Children in the villages help their parents in the fields and prepare for the winter. On September 1 all children from ages 6 to 17 go back to school. They look forward to the next summer but meanwhile they are going to learn new stories about their favorite hero Babek, who fought for independence and was executed in invaders in the 9th century. They will also be fascinated to read melodic lyrics by Fizuli, one of the greatest Azerbaijani poets, whose 500th anniversary was in 1995.