4IntermediateGeneralCulture

A Beautiful Spring Tradition Brings Families Together in Turkey

Every spring, families in the Turkish city of Iğdır celebrate Nevruz with a special gift-giving tradition. The groom's family sends a decorated tray called a 'honca' to his bride-to-be. This tradition strengthens family bonds and welcomes the new season.

1 min readLevel 4March 23, 2026

By Flalingo Editorial Team

Vocabulary

Study these words before reading the article. Click the audio button to hear pronunciation.

tradition

/trəˈdɪʃən/

noun

A custom or belief that people have followed for a long time

“Giving gifts during holidays is a tradition in many cultures.”

decorated

/ˈdekəreɪtɪd/

adjective

Made more beautiful by adding colors, designs, or special items

“The decorated cake looked amazing at the birthday party.”

symbolic

/sɪmˈbɒlɪk/

adjective

Representing something important through a sign or object

“The dove is symbolic of peace in many countries.”

gathering

/ˈɡæðərɪŋ/

noun

An event where people come together in one place

“The family gathering at the park was full of laughter.”

solidarity

/ˌsɒlɪˈdærɪti/

noun

The feeling of support and unity between people in a group

“The neighbors showed solidarity by helping each other after the storm.”

ancient

/ˈeɪnʃənt/

adjective

Very old, from a time long ago in history

“Scientists discovered an ancient city under the desert sand.”

Article

Click on any underlined word to see its definition. Highlighted words are from the vocabulary section.

Spring has arrived, and people in Iğdır, Turkey are celebrating. Nevruz is a very old festival that marks the new year. The word Nevruz means 'new day' in Persian. People have celebrated this tradition for over 3,000 years. It is a time of joy and togetherness.

One special Nevruz custom in Iğdır is the 'honca' tradition. The groom's family prepares a decorated tray for his bride-to-be. The tray includes new clothes, jewelry, sweets, and seven types of nuts. A mirror and candles are also placed on the tray. Each item is symbolic and represents good wishes.

This year, a young man named Muhammet brought a honca to his fiancée. His family arrived at her home with flowers and gifts. Relatives gave gold bracelets to the bride-to-be. Musicians played traditional songs while everyone danced and celebrated. It was a joyful gathering for both families.

The honca tradition is important because it connects families. It also celebrates the arrival of spring and new beginnings. Nevruz reminds people of unity and solidarity in their community. Many countries from Central Asia to the Balkans celebrate Nevruz. This ancient festival continues to bring people together every year.

Comprehension Quiz

Test your understanding of the article with these multiple-choice questions.

1
What does the word 'Nevruz' mean?
2
What is a 'honca'?
3
Who sends the honca to the bride-to-be?
4
How many types of nuts are placed on the honca tray?
5
How long have people been celebrating Nevruz?

Discussion

Answer these comprehension questions about the article.

1
What is the name of the spring festival celebrated in Iğdır, Turkey?
2
What items are included on the honca tray?
3
Who prepares the honca tray, and who receives it?
4
What did Muhammet's family do when they arrived at the bride's home?
5
Why is the honca tradition considered important for families and communities?

Further Discussion

Share your opinions on these open-ended questions.

1
Does your culture have a special tradition to celebrate spring? What is it?
2
Have you ever received a meaningful gift that was symbolic? What did it mean to you?
3
What do you think is the most important tradition in your family? Why?
4
Do you think it is important to keep old traditions alive? Why or why not?
5
If you could create a new tradition for your community, what would it be?