Tsagaan Sar Mongolia: A Complete Guide to the Mongolian Lunar New Year
Tsagaan Sar Mongolia is the country’s most important traditional holiday, marking the Lunar New Year and celebrating themes of renewal, peace, family unity, and ancestral respect. Deeply rooted in Mongolian nomadic culture, Tsagaan Sar blends spiritual rituals, generational customs, and festive gatherings.
When Is Tsagaan Sar Celebrated in Mongolia?
The celebration of Tsagaan Sar in Mongolia follows the lunar calendar, usually falling between late January and early March. The festival officially begins on the first day of the first spring month, known as Shiniin Negen. Preparations start the day before, during Bituun (New Year’s Eve).
- February 17 to 20, 2026
- February 6 to 8, 2027
- February 24 to 26, 2028
- February 13 to 15, 2029
- February 3 to 5, 2030
What Does Tsagaan Sar Symbolize in Mongolian Culture?
The word “Tsagaan” means white, symbolizing purity, peace, and new beginnings. In Mongolian culture, Tsagaan Sar represents:
Family harmony
Forgiveness and reconciliation
Spiritual and seasonal renewal
Respect for elders and ancestors
Bituun – Lunar New Year’s Eve Rituals
On Bituun, or New Year’s Eve, Mongolian families prepare for Tsagaan Sar by:
Cleaning their homes thoroughly to remove negative energy
Preparing special dishes, especially meat and dairy
Lighting candles or butter lamps
Avoiding conflict to ensure a peaceful new year
Zolgokh – Greeting and Respect
A key ritual of Tsagaan Sar Mongolia is Zolgokh, a formal greeting to show respect and connection:
The younger person places their arms beneath the elder’s, palms up
They say, “Amar baina uu?” (Are you at peace?)
Families exchange snuff bottles (khuurug) and give warm wishes
Tsagaan Sar Mongolia Food Traditions
Food is at the heart of Tsagaan Sar celebrations in Mongolia. The holiday feast includes:
Buuз (steamed dumplings) – a symbol of prosperity
Uuts – Boiled sheep’s back, representing wealth and honor
Tavgiin idee – Layered dried dairy pyramid with aaruul, ezgii, and urum
Milk tea (Suutei tsai) and boortsog (fried dough pastries)
Airag – Fermented mare’s milk, a traditional Mongolian drink
Clothing and Cultural Dress
People wear traditional Mongolian clothing during Tsagaan Sar, especially the deel:
Made from silk or brocade in vibrant colors
Worn with a sash (bus) and boots (gutal)
Elders often wear specially tailored festive deels
Wearing traditional attire symbolizes respect for heritage and pride in national identity.
Gift-Giving and Visiting
Gift-giving is an essential part of Lunar new year. Customs include:
Visiting relatives and neighbors over several days
Bringing practical or symbolic gifts such as food, money, or household goods
Elders blessing children and young family members
These traditions promote generosity and family unity.
Modern Tsagaan Sar Celebrations in Mongolia
In modern-day Mongolia, especially in cities like Ulaanbaatar, Tsagaan Sar is celebrated with both traditional and contemporary elements:
Urban families may celebrate with simplified customs
Television specials and concerts air nationwide
People travel to home provinces to reunite with family
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
Tsagaan Sar is more than just a New Year holiday—it’s a spiritual and cultural milestone:
Reflects shamanistic and Buddhist traditions
Encourages inner peace, balance with nature, and ancestral reverence
Connects Mongolians to their nomadic roots and national identity
Summary: Why Tsagaan Sar Is Mongolia’s Most Cherished Holiday
Tsagaan Sar Mongolia celebrates the Lunar New Year with rich traditions, food, and family values
Emphasizes renewal, respect, and togetherness
One of the most deeply respected holidays in Mongolian history and culture
