Yalda Night

Yahda Night" or "shab e Chelleh (Night of Forty)" is a Persian celebration which is celebrated on or around December 21^st or 22^nd each year.

Its special significance in the Iranian calendar is because it's the longest night of the year .Yalda Night was one of the most important celebrations in ancient

Iran and continues to be celebrated nowadays.

It is a night after which the days gradually grow longer and longer.

At this special night, families gather together at the house of older members of the family like parents or grandparents.

According to an old belief, grandparents symbolize the old Sun and the end of the year. At this night many varieties of certain fruits and sweetmeats are served; things like nuts (almond, pistachio, hazelnut, and walnut), dried fruit, and fruits such as watermelon and pomegranates. These foods and fruits symbolize blessing, good health and happiness. Reading Hafez’ poems and divination is also another common tradition of Yalda nights.

During this ceremony, the older members of the family tell tales and anecdotes to entertain others. Yalda Night is a good opportunity to get together with our relatives and friends and improve our bonds with them.