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nDependingnon where you live in the world, the Solstice is today or tomorrow.nThis is the shortest day and longest night of the year in thenNorthern Hemisphere, and of course the longest day and shortest nightnof the year in the Southern Hemisphere. The days have been gettingnshorter and shorter in the Northern Hemisphere ever since late June,nbut now they will start getting longer and longer again!
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nYaldanis the Persian (Iranian) WinternSolstice Celebration. It is a social occasion when family and closenfriends get together. Fresh fruit is traditionally served, includingnwatermelon, pomegranate, nuts and dried fruit.
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nFoodnis commonly placed on a korsi,nwhich is like a very short table covered by a wool blanket. Peoplensit around the korsinand put their legs under the blanket. Inside the korsinis a heater—so this seating arrangement sounds nice andntoasty-warm. Families stay up late eating, talking, reading poemsnaloud, and telling stories or jokes. In the past, people wouldndecorate their houses and yards with candles, and they would givenpresents of dried fruits and nuts to friends and family, wrapped upnin bits of parchment and tied with ribbon, like a little party favor.nBut apparently the customs of burning candles and giving gifts onnYalda have been dyingnout.
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| This Yalda table setting looks pretty yummy. You know what I see along with the watermelon, pomegranate, and nuts? I see cotton candy! |
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nTonlearn more about Winter Solstice, click here.
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nAngame that comes from the Ancient Persian culture is Backgammon. Playnonline here. If you need help with the rules, check out Backgammon Galore.
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nAlsonon this date…
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nAnniversary of first crossword puzzle
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