BELLEVUE, WA – On March 16, 2025, the Association of Washington State Azerbaijanis (AWSA) hosted a vibrant celebration of Novruz, the traditional Azerbaijani New Year, at the Vasa Park Resort. The event brought together nearly 150 guests, including distinguished diplomats and local officials, to celebrate Azerbaijani culture and its contributions to the community.

The event was emceed by Aytac Qasımova, a respected community leader, and AWSA Board Member Fəgan Yusifli.

Throughout the evening, they guided the crowd through a variety of cultural performances and speeches that highlighted the significance of Novruz, a holiday celebrating the arrival of spring and the renewal of nature.

Among the distinguished attendees were Vüqar Qurbanov, Consul General of Azerbaijan in Los Angeles, and Cavid Əlizadə, Consul of Azerbaijan. Vüqar Qurbanov delivered a heartfelt speech, welcoming the guests and expressing his gratitude toward the AWSA for their dedication to promoting Azerbaijani culture in Washington State. “Your efforts in preserving and sharing the rich traditions of Azerbaijan are a testament to the strength of our community,” Qurbanov said.

Councilmember Claudia Balducci of King County also addressed the crowd, emphasizing the inclusive and welcoming nature of the region. “King County is proud to be home to diverse cultures and communities,” Balducci remarked. “It is an honor to celebrate Novruz alongside the Azerbaijani community today.”

The cultural program featured several captivating performances, beginning with a traditional Azerbaijani dance set to the beloved song Sarı Gəlin (Blond Bride), performed by students from the Eurasia Virtual Academy. The dancers captivated the audience with their intricate movements, embodying the grace and beauty of Azerbaijani folk dance.

Adding to the evening’s festivities, the Tatar dance group Tatar Kyzlar (Tatar Girls) performed the Aqqosh (Swan) dance, an elegant and symbolic portrayal of the grace of swans, showcasing the rich Tatar cultural heritage.

In a historic moment for Bellevue, AWSA Board Member Kerem Onat read aloud a special proclamation issued by the City of Bellevue, officially recognizing the Azerbaijani community. This proclamation, the first of its kind in the city’s history, acknowledged the contributions of Azerbaijani Americans to the cultural fabric of the region.

The celebration of Novruz by the AWSA highlighted not only the traditions of Azerbaijan but also the vibrant, diverse communities that make Washington State a unique and inclusive place. The event was a testament to the importance of cultural exchange and understanding, as well as a reminder of the shared values that unite us all.