Yalda Night and Winter Solstice

Over the years, St Ethelburga’s has warmly welcomed people from Afghanistan and Iran who have introduced us to the richness of their cultural traditions. Among the cherished festivals is Yalda Night’ or Shabe-e Yalda — a celebration where family and friends come together each year to mark the longest night of the year and which is seen by many as the triumph of light over darkness. Join us for this ancient intercultural Winter Solstice that we'll be celebrating with music and with customary Yalda foods of nuts, dried fruits, watermelon and pomegrantes – their redness the colour of love and life.

‍Join us!

This is an event for those who celebrate Yalda Night, for those reading about it here for the first time, and for those who wish to celebrate the Winter Solstice in an inter-cultural way. The event at St Ethelburga's Centre acknowledges that each individual or family will have their own traditions around this cultural festival.  The event will be in English and Persian/Dari (with translation) . Everyone is welcome to bring stories, poems and musical instruments for an intimate night and cultural celebration in St Ethelburga’s Nave. This is a mixed event for men and women. 

(Photo: Betty Binon)

‍Tickets

Included in the cost of the ticket are refreshments, traditional Yalda snacks and sweets during the evening. Places are limited so please book even if coming as a guest.

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