Also referred to as Akitu, it is celebrated on April 1st of every year. As of April 1st 2009, the current Assyrian year is 6759. Prior to the implementation of the Gregorian calendar, this day used to be celebrated on March 21st. Considered one of the most religious and national celebrations in ancient Assyria, the celebration is of revival and renewal of nature (Spring)

The word 'Akitu' itself is Sumerian word for "barley": this was a festival to celebrate the season to start harvesting barely in ancient Assyria and Mesopotamia.

In ancient times, the Assyrian New Year (Akitu) was traditionally marked by 12 days of celebrations and rituals, beginning with the reciting of sad prayers by priests and people on the first day and culminating on the 12th day where the Gods supposedly returned to  Marduk's temple, and life would return to normalcy in Assyria and Babylon.

Modern day celebrations, as the the day has been greatly revived in the last few decades, involve parades, parties, public speeches and rallies. Men and women wear traditional costume, and dance to traditional Assyrian music and poems.

Assyrians celebrating the April 1st Assyrian New Year in Northern Iraq (carrying the Assyrian flag)

To read and learn more, visit:

•  Khä B'Nësán (April 1st) - Assyrian New Year
• Assyrian new year - Wikipedia