The celebration of Yennayer in Algeria: An ethnographic study of practices, customs, and traditions in several regions

Abstract

This study sheds light on one of the antique traditions, "Yennayer", the new agricultural year of most northern African countries where Amazigh people dwell. Although most of these countries were arabised by the spread of Islam, the celebration is done in every January of each year to perpetuate their ancient identity that has survived for thousands of years. Yenayer festivities often include handy crafts exhibitions, cultural events, and hearty meals symbolizing abundance and prosperity for the coming year such as couscous and some traditional pastries.

 The primary objective of this study is to give a concept to this tradition with all of its different fundamentals including costums and beliefs, and to see how the celebration of Yennayer differs from one region to another. Here we seek to clarify these following questions: What Algerians do to celebrate yennayer and what are the main practices and beliefs that are adopted? What beliefs are associated with it? And what are the differences that can be observed among these regions where yennayer is celebrated?

To reach our objectives, we conducted an ethnographic study, which allowed us to report the facts observed in the field. First, we recorded every costum and belief separately and then we linked each other according to their compatibility. Then, we compared the assorted data gathered to identify the specific characteristics of each region under study. Besides, our corpus was assembled using two methods: literature reviews based on books and previous researches that have been done on the subject, and a field survey: participants’ observation and face -to- face interviews. In addition, we received some reports and witnesses of local inhabitants of different remote areas using modern communication tools ; this approach allowed us to collect numerous information.

This inquiry has demonstrated how Yennayer as a tradition is very rich. It takes in several practices, beliefs and rituals. Through the present work, we also highlighted the important role of Amazigh women in both the celebration and the transmission of this tradition over the years. Furthermore, the recognition of the government has given it a new significance, promoting its development and an effective understanding of this cultural heritage.

The celebration of Yennayer today differs from that of the past. It is; therefore, likely that future research will focus more on the transformations this festival has undergone over the generations. Similarly, other field studies, more extensive and in-depth-studies, could be conducted to better understand the evolution of this tradition through time to become nowardays an important day in the Amazigh tradition.

Keywords: Yennayer, customs, beliefs, practices.