Yalda

Yalda, also known as Shab-e Yalda or Shab-e Chelleh, is a Persian festival celebrated on the longest night of the year, aligning with the winter solstice. The date usually falls around December 20–22, varying by year and location. The celebration emphasizes the return of longer days and the triumph of light over darkness.

Traditionally, families gather after sunset to stay awake late, share stories, and read poetry, particularly the work of Hafez, in a custom known as Fal-e Hafez. The event centers on companionship, warmth, and the anticipation of brighter days.

Food is central to Yalda. The spread commonly features red fruits such as pomegranates and watermelons, believed to symbolize life and the sun’s glow, along with nuts, dried fruits, tea, and sweets. These foods are enjoyed while tale-telling and poetry recitals occur.

Yalda has roots in ancient Persian culture and is linked to pre-Islamic celebrations; it has continued through the Islamic era and is widely observed in Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and among Persian-speaking communities worldwide.