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- International
- Date change rule:
- Begins at sundown on the 13th of Jalál (April 20–21)
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- 🕊️
The Ridván Festival (Bahá’i) illuminates the calendar from April 21 to May 2 each year. This twelve-day period, known as the ‘King of Festivals,’ commemorates Baháʼu’lláh’s declaration as a Manifestation of God. Join Bahá’ís worldwide in prayer, reflection, and community gatherings to honor this sacred time.
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History of Ridvan Festival (Bahá'i)
Siyyid ʻAlí-Muhammad of Shiraz declared himself the “Báb” and his followers were known as Bábís. Báb’s writings established the concept of “He whom God shall make manifest,” a Messianic figure whose arrival was predicted in all the world’s great faiths, according to Baháʼís.
While imprisoned at the Syáh-Chál in Tehran, Iran, in 1852, Baháu’lláh claimed that his mission as the Promised One of the Báb was revealed to him. Baháu’lláh was exiled from Persia after his release from the Syáh-Chál, and he settled in Baghdad, which became the center of Báb activity. Even though he did not openly disclose this prophetic mission, he grew to be the Báb community’s leader.
The revival of the Persian Báb community, as well as Baháu’lláh’s rising prominence in the city, drew the attention of his enemies in the Islamic clergy and the Persian government, who were eventually successful in having Baháu’lláh summoned from Baghdad to Constantinople by the Ottoman rulers. Many people came to see Baháu’lláh before he left. He moved to the Najibiyyih garden across the Tigris river from Baghdad to give his family time to prepare for the trip and to be able to greet all of these visitors. Although he was accompanied by his sons, Bahá’lláh’s family could not join him until April 30, the ninth day, because the water had risen and made passage to the garden difficult, although the flooding was only nine days long. Baháu’lláh and his family left the garden on the twelfth day of their stay and embarked on their journey to Constantinople.
For Baháʼís, the time Baháu’lláh spent at the Garden of Ridván in April 1863, as well as the associated festival and celebration, is extremely significant. Baháu’lláh refers to it as one of two “Most Great Festivals.”
Ridvan Festival (Bahá'i) timeline
Siyyid ʻAlí-Muhammad of Shiraz declares himself to be the "Báb."
Baháʼu'lláh enters the garden.
His family joins the garden.
The entire family leaves the garden for Constantinople.
Ridvan Festival (Bahá'i) FAQs
When is Ridvan Festival (Bahá'i)?
In 2027, the Ridván Festival commences at sundown on Wednesday, April 21, and ends on Sunday, May 2. This twelve-day period is a time of great spiritual significance for Bahá’ís worldwide.
What does Ridván mean?
The name Ridván symbolizes a spiritual paradise, reflecting the joyous and transformative nature of Baháʼu’lláh’s announcement. It signifies a new era of divine guidance for humanity.
How long does the Ridván Festival last?
This sacred festival spans twelve days, from April 21 to May 2, during which Bahá’ís observe specific holy days. The first, ninth, and twelfth days are particularly significant.
What is the significance of the Garden of Ridván?
It was in the tranquil setting of the Garden of Ridván that Baháʼu’lláh spent twelve days before His exile, proclaiming His station as a Messenger of God. This declaration is central to the Bahá’í Faith.
Ridvan Festival (Bahá'i) Activities
Decorate with roses
Recreate the garden from the original story by decorating your house with beautiful roses. This will even enable you to pay homage to the story.
Reflect and chant
A good way to celebrate is to get together and exchange stories about Ridván and its significance. Chants and songs can also be shared.
Celebrate spring
One of the writings about Ridván talks about nature’s awakening. Celebrate the season of spring and nature in whatever way you can.
5 Interesting Facts About Baha'i Faith
It has a unique calendar
In the Baha’i faith, one year is 19 months and one month is 19 days.
There are Arabic roots
Symbols are derived from the Arabic word ‘Baha’ meaning ‘splendor’ or ‘glory.’
Significance in numbers
The number nine is significant, and the nine-pointed star is one of its most common symbols.
Belief in the One
Their belief is in a single, almighty God who is the creator of the universe.
There are prohibitions
Indulging in alcohol, drugs, and gambling is prohibited.
Why We Love Ridvan Festival (Bahá'i)
Reason to celebrate
The festival is a time of celebration that brings with it a wave of light and happiness. Who doesn’t love a few days of celebration with your community?
Trip down memory lane
In the hustle and bustle of life, a celebration like this reminds people of their faith’s roots and gives them a chance to revisit and relearn its stories. It is a reminder of important moments in history.
Faith reconnection
The festival enables people to set aside some time to reconnect with their faith and beliefs and practices. It is an opportunity to develop a deeper connection individually and with the community as a whole.
