Premier John Horgan has issued the following statement on Yalda, the Iranian celebration of solstice:

“Tonight, families from Iranian, Afghan, Tajik, Azeri and Kurdish communities in British Columbia and around the world will be celebrating Yalda, the ancient celebration of the winter solstice.

“For thousands of years, family and friends have gathered together to mark the longest and darkest night of the year.

“Yalda Night is an opportunity to join together in ritual to reflect on the arrival of winter, the renewal of the sun and the victory of light over darkness.

“To everyone celebrating Yalda, I wish you a wonderful evening and brighter months ahead for you, your family and all British Columbians.

“Shab-e Yalda Mobarak!”