Known as Shab-e Yalda or Shab-e Chelleh, the celebration spans the time between sunset on the final day of autumn and sunrise on the first day of winter. With roots stretching back centuries, Yalda Night has long been regarded as one of the most significant cultural observances in Iranian history. Historical records indicate that it was officially included in the calendar of ancient Iran in 502 BC during the reign of Darius I, commonly known as Darius the Great.
Both before and after the advent of Islam, Yalda Night has maintained a central place in Iranian cultural life. Traditionally, it has served as an occasion for families—near and far—to gather, reinforcing social bonds through shared rituals that have endured across generations. The night symbolizes the gradual lengthening of days following the solstice, which Iranians interpret as the renewal of the sun and the victory of light over darkness.
In ancient times, darkness was believed to be associated with evil forces, prompting people to remain awake throughout the longest night of the year and light fires for protection. While the symbolism has evolved, the essence of the celebration—staying together until dawn—remains intact.
On the eve of Yalda, a palpable sense of excitement fills Iranian households as families prepare for the night. While ancient gatherings centered around open fires, and later around the traditional korsi—a low table with a heater beneath and blankets draped over it—modern celebrations typically take place indoors using contemporary heating devices. Today, Yalda is commonly observed as an overnight family gathering, often hosted by grandparents or elderly relatives.
A family sits on the floor around the Korsi during the 'Yalda Night' celebration
Storytelling is a central feature of the night. Elders recount tales and anecdotes, creating an atmosphere of warmth and continuity. Literary traditions also play a key role, particularly the reading of verses from Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh and the Divan-e Hafez. A popular ritual involves each participant silently making a wish before opening the Divan-e Hafez at random. The eldest person present then reads the selected poem aloud, and its verses are interpreted as a symbolic response to the wish.
Food and fruit are among the most cherished elements of Yalda Night. Families typically prepare a generous dinner, but greater emphasis is placed on fruits and nuts. Watermelon and pomegranate are the most iconic, both valued for their red color, which symbolizes the sun. Pomegranate, in particular, has long been regarded as a symbol of fertility, blessing, happiness, and sacredness. Watermelon, despite being a summer fruit, is traditionally eaten on Yalda Night with the belief that it protects against cold and illness during the winter months.
Other fruits commonly served include oranges, citrus fruits, apples, persimmons, pears, and pumpkins. Nuts such as pistachios, walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts are essential, often accompanied by dried figs and berries. Across Iran, each region incorporates its own local foods and customs, reflecting diverse cultural identities.
Regional traditions add further richness to the celebration. In eastern Iran, particularly Khorasan, an old custom involves preparing kaf, a foam-like sweet. In some areas, special rituals are observed for newly engaged couples. Shahnameh recitation ceremonies have also traditionally been held in Khorasan on Yalda Night.
In Tabriz, street musicians known as Ashiq roam neighborhoods singing, playing music, and narrating legends.
In Lorestan, young people climb onto neighbors’ rooftops after sunset to sing a traditional song called Shov-e Avval-e Qāreh, lowering scarves to receive treats.
Zanjan remains one of the few regions where the korsi is still widely used, and Yalda gatherings there feature local sweets such as window-shaped pastries and baklava.
In Sanandaj, the capital of Kordestan Province, families prepare dolma and sangak bread, rotating hosting duties among households each year.
Recognizing its cultural significance, Yalda Night was officially registered on Iran’s List of National Treasures in 2008.
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