The Origin of New Year’s Eve: Nardugan

The Origin of New Year’s Eve: Nardugan

The term Nardugan is derived from the Mongolian word nar (meaning “sun”) and the Turkish word tugan (meaning “born”). It refers to a holiday that was celebrated by the Turks before they converted to monotheism, under a tree they believed stood at the center of the world—what they called the “Tree of Life.”

Every year on December 22nd, people celebrated the Nardugan Festival to express their gratitude to Ülgen, the God of Fertility. On this day, the cosmic battle between day and night was believed to end, with daylight triumphing—symbolizing a new beginning and the rebirth of the sun. Much like the modern New Year’s Eve, homes were cleaned, people dressed in their finest clothes, and the most sacred spruce tree (Akçam ağacı) in the area was decorated with offerings for Ülgen. Songs were sung, and dances were performed around the tree in celebration.

Some studies suggest that the modern-day figure of Santa Claus may have roots in ancient Turkic traditions. According to these studies, there was a mythological figure named Ayaz Ata—an old, bearded man who, like today’s Santa Claus, would visit children to give them gifts and offer protection.

According to renowned Sumerologist Muazzez İlmiye Çığ:

“Today, the old man we know as Santa Claus was believed to be the evil brother of the Sky God, known as the Earth God. It was believed that on December 22nd, even he chose to be good and went door to door giving gifts. Santa Claus’ attire reflects ancient Turkish traditions. This custom was brought to Europe by the Huns and spread among Christians as Christianity expanded. In 325 AD, it was adopted as a way to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.”

As a result of these findings, it can be said that the origins of both New Year’s Eve and Santa Claus may lie in ancient Turkish traditions, which later spread to other parts of the world.

DENİZ EYLÜL MERİÇ