Significance

Jashn-e Daegan is a midwinter festival celebrating Ahura Mazda as creator. The month of Dey (the tenth month) is the only month named directly after Ahura Mazda -- making the first day doubly sacred. In the heart of winter darkness, this festival affirms that the creator is present, that the world was made with intention and goodness, and that the darkness will not prevail. Community feasts, charitable giving, and prayers of gratitude for creation mark the day.

Traditional observances

Offer thanks to Ahura Mazda for the gift of existence
Host or attend a community feast -- sharing food is central
Give to charity -- the feast of the creator demands generosity
Reflect on what you are grateful for in creation: the natural world, relationships, consciousness itself
Light fires against the midwinter darkness

Honored deities

Ahura Mazda