Vancouver – the Consulate General of I.R. of Afghanistan in Vancouver, Afghan Canadian Association of BC and MAWJ: Afghan Cultural Association of Canada, celebrated Yalda Night also known as Shab-e Chella.

The celebration began with Consul General, Mohammad Salem Wahdat, welcoming quest with “it is an honor and a great moment for us to celebrate the arrival of winter, the renewal of the sun and the victory of light over darkness, and to share the richness, diversity, and warmth of the Afghan culture and tradition”.

Following to the welcoming message at this celebration, families, and friends living in Vancouver which gathered together, celebrated Shab-e Chella by reading poetry “Hafez and Shahnameh”, ate food, fruits “pomegranates and watermelons” and nuts and enjoyed the performances.

Yalda, which means birth, it is also referred to as Shab-e Chelleh, a celebration of winter solstice -- the last night of fall and the longest night of the year, which is one of the ancient festivals.