In Iranian historical culture, Yalda night (Shab-e Yalda or Shab-e Cheleh) is the last day of the autumn season, that is, December 20. According to astronomical calculations, this day is known as the winter solstice, which is the day of the year that has the longest night in the northern hemisphere, and after that, the length of days increases.
From ancient times and before Islam, Iranians have had gatherings and overnight ceremonies on Yalda night, and they spent this long night by eating fruits, seeds and nuts together. Shab-e Yalda gathering and soiree is a ceremony that is still quite popular among Iranians, and for this night party, they prepare different fruits such as pomegranate and even summer fruits like watermelon, and spend the night together with a laugh.
