Maidyoshahem Gahambar · Gahanbar-e Maidyoshahem

Culture of origin: Zoroastrian · Ancient festival

Holiday sources: Iran · Zoroastrianism

Maidyoshahem, "midsummer", is the second of the six gahambars, marking the summer solstice, and it celebrates the creation of water. Every Zoroastrian is enjoined to bring an offering to the gahambar, from cattle for sacrifice down to a stick of dry wood, or for the destitute a prayer. After the services the consecrated food is shared at communal feasts that bring rich and poor together.