Christmas in Iran

Iran (formerly known as Persia) call Christmas by the name of the Little Feast, which is not so little after all. A great fast precedes Christmas beginning from 1st of December and people have to abstain from eating meat, eggs and dairy products such as milk and cheese for 25 days. The days are meant to purify one's body, mind and soul to welcome the Christ and people are advised to spend time in peace and meditation and attend the Church services regularly. Christmas Eve is the last day of the fast and people gather to attend Mass even before dawn on Christmas and receive Communion.

Only then they are allowed to break their fast and the preparations for the great feast is started. Joy and merriment reigns all over the country. Plenty of meat is prepared for the celebrations, the main dish being a variation of chicken stew, which is cooked in large quantities and is stored and eaten for several days. Santa Claus is not a craze among Iranian kids not they exchange gifts at Christmas but they get new clothes that they can wear all through the week. Christmas week is the time for happiness for all boys and girls as they can enjoy themselves and indulge in food once again.