Reboot Studios Launching Erev Yalda: A Celebration of Persian-Jewish Winter Traditions

New short film interweaves Hanukkah and Yalda, celebrating resilience and light in the darkest season. 

As the winter holidays approach, Reboot Studios is presenting a new way to celebrate with Erev Yalda, a reimagining of the ancient Persian winter solstice celebration Yalda. The new ritual blends Yalda with the themes of Hanukkah, through an Iranian-Jewish lens. Conceived by Los Angeles-based entrepreneur Rachel Sumekh and food writer Tannaz Sassooni, Erev Yalda brings a vibrant, new tradition to life—one that inspires people from all backgrounds to embrace warmth, light, and resilience during the year’s longest night.

Create your own Erev Yalda with our resource kit. Sign up below to download the kit.

The project offers a beautifully designed digital resource kit, along with a short film capturing the essence of Erev Yalda, to help others to create their own Iranian-Jewish celebration.

The film features acclaimed talents including actress and producer Michaela Watkins, Israeli-Iranian comedian and activist Noam Shuster-Eliassi, and Black and Persian comedian Tehran Von Ghasri. Erev Yalda offers a cultural bridge, inviting viewers to experience the powerful intersection of Persian and Jewish heritage. The film’s cozy setting—adorned with Persian rugs, glowing candles, and a menorah—evokes both the ancient roots and fresh spirit of a new tradition. Interwoven scenes showcase poetry, symbolic foods, and intimate moments that inspire audiences to embrace light and connection amidst darkness, honoring both Yalda and Hanukkah. Erev Yalda is celebrated on December 20 this year. Hanukkah starts December 25. They can be celebrated together however you’d like.

For thousands of years, Jews in Iran have found ways to bridge their cultural heritage with their Jewish identity, creating a kaleidoscope of new traditions. As co-creator Sassooni noted, “In Iranian Jewish culture, the winter solstice represents hope—a reminder that even the darkest night gives way to dawn. This blend of Yalda and Hanukkah encourages us to carry forward that light into our own homes, communities, and lives.”