Shab-e Yalda

Shab-e Yalda is an Iranian celebration marking the longest night of the year, typically around December 20-21. It signifies the victory of longer daylight hours and the renewal of the sun, symbolizing hope and renewal. Families gather to stay awake late, sharing stories, reading poetry—especially Hafez—eating traditional foods like pomegranate, nuts, and watermelon, and lighting candles to ward off darkness. The holiday emphasizes the importance of family, community, and the appreciation of light overcoming darkness, blending ancient Zoroastrian roots with cultural traditions rooted in the Persian New Year cycle.