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Yalda
Iranians have celebrated Yalda night for at least 10,000 years. In times past, this pagan Iranian celebration marked the birth of Mithra, the god of the Sun. His yearly rebirth meant the return of daily light in conjunction with the year's longest night and the beginning of winter.
According to some researchers, the Christmas celebration – the Eve of the birth of Jesus, the child of light – has its origins in Yalda. Indeed, the Bible (Gospel of Matthew) tells the story of the Three Wise Men who began their journey on December 21. They came from the East to kneel before the Messiah. Their journey could actually symbolize the fact that Christianity is in accordance with an early, primary tradition that is at the foundation of all religions.
On Yalda night, in our present times, Iranian families celebrate with pastries and red-centred fruits like watermelon and pomegranate. The red colour, which represents fire, is symbolic of the sun.
Opening Hours:
Tue-Friday 11am - 7pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm - 6pm
