The White Moon
Tsagaan Sar means “White Moon” or “White Month,” and it marks the beginning of the new year in the traditional Mongolian lunar calendar. It is widely regarded as one of the most important family celebrations of the year. Whereas Naadam is mostly a public festival, Tsagaan Sar takes place mainly in homes, with relatives visiting one another over several days.
White is associated with milk and purity, which is why dairy foods and clean, bright things figure prominently in the holiday.
When It Falls
Because the date follows a lunar calendar, it shifts from year to year relative to the Gregorian calendar. It typically falls in late winter, often in January or February, though the exact day is set each year and may differ from other lunar new year celebrations in neighboring countries. For the specific date in the year you plan to travel, check a local calendar or ask a Mongolian source close to your trip. The traditional calendar is also used to select auspicious days for other events, a subject related to lucky days.
The celebration usually lasts for several days, with the first day being the most important for the family. Many offices and businesses close for part of the holiday, and some services may be limited. Travelers should plan for reduced availability of restaurants, shops and transport around this period.
Getting Ready
Preparations begin well in advance. Families clean their homes, repair or replace worn items, and try to settle debts and arguments so that the year can begin cleanly. Large amounts of food are prepared, especially dumplings and pastries, which can take days to make.
The last day of the old year is a time for reflection and a family meal. Customs vary by family and region, and some households keep traditions that others do not.
The First Morning
Early on the first day, many people greet the new year in a quiet household moment and then dress in their best clothing. A traditional deel is common, and a belt and hat may be worn for formal visits. Some families make offerings to the sky or hearth, or visit a monastery, in keeping with their beliefs.
Younger family members then visit elders, beginning with the oldest relatives. This pattern reflects the emphasis on respect for elders that runs through Mongolian family life.
Greetings
A well-known greeting at Tsagaan Sar is a formal exchange in which the younger person holds out their arms, palms up, and the elder places their own arms underneath, supporting them. Cheeks may be touched or sniffed lightly rather than kissed, depending on the family. A traditional blue scarf, the khadag, may be exchanged, and small gifts may be given.
A typical spoken greeting wishes the other person health and a peaceful year. Learning a few basic Mongolian phrases is a thoughtful gesture, though it is not expected of visitors.
Many families also exchange snuff bottles among adult men and women, with a short ritual of passing, receiving and returning the bottle. The details differ by region and household. As a guest, you can follow the example of your hosts and decline politely if you do not wish to take part.
The Festive Table
The holiday table is generous. Items often include:
- A tiered stack of fried biscuits, usually built in layers, topped with sweets and dried curd. The number of layers is often described as odd and may reflect the age or status of the household, though practices differ.
- Steamed dumplings, often filled with mutton, made in large numbers and eaten throughout the holiday. See the discussion of Mongolian dumplings for more.
- Boiled mutton, frequently served as a large cut including the sheep’s rump or tail, a prized portion.
- Dairy foods such as curds, cream and cheese, and plenty of salty milk tea. More on dairy products appears elsewhere.
- Rice with dried fruit or curds, and sweet dishes, and in some families, fermented drinks or vodka.
Guests are expected to taste the food even if they cannot finish it. It is considered polite to accept what is offered. If you have dietary restrictions or health concerns, tell your host gently and early, and remember that food safety matters in large gatherings.
Visiting During Tsagaan Sar
A visitor who is invited should arrive dressed neatly, bring a small gift such as sweets, fruit or something for the children, and accept a drink and a bite. Visits can be long, and several rounds of food are common. It is considered good to leave when the host seems to be ready for other guests.
Follow the usual rules of ger etiquette or home etiquette, such as accepting items with the right hand or both hands, and avoid refusing hospitality abruptly. If you are traveling in winter, remember that cold-weather planning is important, since the holiday occurs in the coldest part of the year. For general advice, see the material on Mongolian winter.
A Holiday of Renewal
The details vary between families, regions and generations, and some customs have changed in modern city life. Still, the core ideas are consistent: honor elders, share food, forgive old disputes and begin the year in good spirits. If you are lucky enough to be welcomed into a home for the holiday, a little attentiveness will go a long way.