WANA (DEC 25) – A surprising holiday spirit has been stirring in Iran, where Islamic traditions are the ruling culture.

 

Even though Christmas is not officially recognized, it has recently gained popularity in predominantly Muslim Iran. Cities such as Tehran and Isfahan have been showing a surge of interest and celebration in the Christian holiday, with decorated pine trees, Santa Clauses, and stores selling Christmas decorations and gifts, which all used to be rare and uncommon in this country.

 

Video: E. Assar / N. Safarzadeh