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.
Iran is originally a Muslim Country that was once known as Persia. A great fast is observed prior to the Persian Christmas celebration followed by a grand feast on the Big Day.