Yalda is celebrated in Iran on the Northern Hemisphere's longest night of the year, that is, on the eve of the Winter Solstice.
It is the last night of Autumn in Persian calendar and depending on the shift of the calendar among Leap Years, Yalda is celebrated on or around December 20 or 21 each year.
In most parts of Persia the extended families gather around and enjoy a fine dinner.
Many varieties of fruits and sweetmeats especially prepared or kept for this night are served.
Foods common to Yalda celebration include watermelon, pomegranate, nuts, and dried fruit.
These items and more are commonly placed on a traditional piece of furniture similar to a very short table, covered by a wool or wool-filled blanket.
People sit around the Korsi and put their legs under the blanket having conversation, eating, reading poems out loud, telling stories and jokes.
By Mehr News Agency
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