On January 11, 2025, the Amazigh American Network Organization (AANO) will host the annual celebration for the Amazigh New Year, also known as Yennayer, in Somerville, Massachusetts, at the Center for Arts at the Armory. This event marks the Amazigh year 2975 and promises to be the biggest Amazigh cultural gathering in the United States.
The Amazigh people, an indigenous group with a deep-rooted history in North Africa, honor Yennayer as a time of renewal, community, and cultural pride. This ancient celebration, observed across the Amazigh homeland of North Africa, Tamazgha (stretching from Morocco to Egypt and into the Sahara), is based on the Amazigh calendar, which begins with the reign of the Amazigh king Shoshenq I in 950 B.C.E. The night before Yennayer, known as Thabbourth Aswegas or the “door to the new year,” is traditionally marked by gatherings, special meals, music, and dance.
Boston’s celebration of Yennayer will bring together Amazigh communities from all across the U.S to share their traditions and offer a taste of their unique culture. Attendees can expect live music from the Kabyle region of Algeria and the Rif and Souss regions of Morocco, as well as from the Touareg region adding a rhythmic heartbeat to the festivities. The event will also include traditional tea, delicious Amazigh pastries, workshops, traditional food tasting and a variety of surprises throughout the day.
One of the highlights of Yennayer is the preparation of traditional dishes like couscous with seven vegetables and tagulla, a dish made from cracked corn or barley, Argan oil, honey, and butter. These foods symbolize good luck and prosperity for the year ahead, and the celebration will include many other elements that reflect Amazigh cultural heritage.
As the Amazigh community continues to grow in New England, this event represents a powerful moment of unity and cultural pride. It’s not only a chance for Amazigh people to celebrate their heritage but also an opportunity for the wider community to experience the festive and learn about one of the oldest cultures in the world.
This family-friendly event is open to everyone interested in exploring the rich traditions of the Amazigh people. Tickets for the celebration are available on zeffy for only $30, with free admission for children under 15. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance to secure your seat as the event is always sold out.
Join us in welcoming the Amazigh New Year 2975 here in Boston with joy and warmth. As we say in Amazigh, “Aseggas Ameggaz” — Happy New Year! May it bring joy, success, and all the blessings you seek.
For more information and to get your tickets, visit zeffy.
