Did you know that the Syrians dedicated an annual festival to the walnut tree, which they call the “Walnut Festival” (Eid al-Jawza), well now you know!

The Walnut Festival, known as “Eid al-Jawza,” is a unique and culturally rich celebration in Syria that brings together communities to honor the walnut, this festival, deeply rooted in tradition, showcases the importance of agriculture in Syrian society, while also serving as a time for joy, togetherness, and cultural expression.

Why walnuts?

Walnuts have long been an integral part of Syrian agriculture and cuisine. Actually, walnuts are not only a key ingredient in many traditional dishes, but they are also a main ingredient in sweets, snacks, and even as a health remedy due to their high nutritional value. The annual harvest of walnuts is a time of great anticipation, marking the culmination of months of hard work.

It Is the preferred tree, for the Syrians have not loved a tree in nature more than their love for the walnut tree, nor has any tree in their magnificent Ghouta enchanted them more than this ancient, towering tree.

The extensive use of walnut wood in the production of furniture, furnishings, and doors of Damascene homes, as well as in various wooden tools and equipment, is famous in Syria. For centuries, walnut wood has also been used in the construction of the famous waterwheels (norias of Hama). In recent years, walnut shells have also been used in the production of adhesives and plastics, and they are also used in the preparation of solutions for cleaning and polishing metal surfaces!

How did this become a tradition?

The Walnut Festival has its roots in ancient agricultural practices, where farmers would come together to celebrate the harvest and give thanks for the land’s bounty. Over time, this tradition evolved into a celebration, with activities that reflect the deep connection between the people and their land. In various regions of Syria, particularly in areas known for their walnut groves, the festival has become an important cultural event

When is The Walnut Day?

It typically takes place during the walnut harvest season, on 28 August.
But why was this day, when did the Walnut Festival begin, and what are its rituals and activities? Let’s find out.
The exact timing of the festival aligns with when the farmers can harvest the walnut.

Festival Activities and Traditions

The community celebrates the Walnut Festival with a variety of activities that highlight both the agricultural and cultural aspects of the occasion.

First, it is the harvesting, the day often begins with a communal walnut harvest,
where families and neighbors gather to collect the nuts. Second, they gather to crack and open the walnuts, sometimes done collectively as a symbolic act of sharing and community.
Third, preparation and sharing of traditional dishes made with walnuts. These might include “Ma’amoul” (a type of filled cookie),
“Jouziyyat” (candied walnuts), and various savory dishes that incorporate walnuts as a key ingredient.

Unfortunately, farmers rarely celebrate this day due to the challenges they face,
instead, the farmers gather and harvest walnuts then, the people gather and start to crack the walnuts and remove their thick shells, so they are later sold in the city markets ready to eat.

On the lucky side, they still have the core of this day, the Walnut Festival is about community. It is a time when people come together to help each other and also their shared heritage and values.

Syrians and the Walnut

The love of the people of Damascus for the walnut tree did not stop at establishing an annual festival for it;
there is also a neighborhood in the Sarouja area in the heart of the capital called “Jawzat al-Hadba” (Walnut of the Hump).
Additionally, there is an old mosque named “Al-Jawza Mosque” located in the Al-Amara area of Old Damascus, the mosque was named so because it was next to a walnut tree.

So, why wait? Embark on a journey to Syria, and discover the Country’s timeless beauty. We would be happy if you could share your photograph of your Syria Tour with us on Social media.

For more information about Syria’s Culture please get in touch with us today! Alternatively, check out our extensive range of group Syria tours.