Despite strict religious traditions, Iran has an interesting modern life. You will hardly find night clubs and bars, you will not be able to order alcohol in the cafe, but this does not make the country less interesting and attractive. This article will tell you about the entertainment that can be found in Iran and how you can spend your time in Tehran.

Entertainment in Iran: Theater

The most popular and large theaters are concentrated in the capital of Iran, and the main cultural life is also concentrated in Tehran. The largest theater is the City Theater in Daneshjou Park. The building itself is considered a landmark of the city. The facade of the theater and the main entrance are richly decorated with ornaments. The theater hosts the main events and performances.

From traditional performances, taziye is one of the most spectacular theatrical genres. It is some kind of an Iranian musical or opera. Plots of taziye were important events starting from the pre-Islamic period like the tragedy of Siyavush, the Battle of Karbala, religious themes, etc. The costumes of the actors are very bright and impressive, the music is exclusively national.

Entertainment in Iran: Zurkhaneh

Another popular type of entertainment in Iran is zurkhaneh. The word is translated as “house of power”. This is a traditional sports arena, where men in uniform perform strength exercises. Zurkhaneh is accompanied by loud sounds of a drum and a traditional song.

Entertainment in Iran: Movies and cinemas

The cinematography in Iran began to develop rapidly after the revolution. To date, Iran represents serious and worthwhile works for international film festivals. Modern Iranian cinema reflects the traditions, life, and customs of Iran and the Iranian people.

One of the main cultural events of the country is the international festival of cinematography “Fajr”, which takes place annually at the end of April.

In Tehran, there are several major popular cinemas. The one peculiarity is that foreign films are not shown in Iranian cinemas. Well, you can watch foreign films at home. In Iran, you need to be the part of the Iranian culture.

Entertainment in Iran: Concerts

In Iran, you will hardly Iranian rap or rock. Pop singers are very popular here and concerts of pop stars are a common thing in Iran. It is always noisy at concerts: the people loudly sing along with their favorite singers. Another unique fact about Iran; there are often organized concerts exceptionally for women and no men are allowed there.

Entertainment in Iran: Football

Iranians love football, especially if Iranians play on the field. If you are the same ardent football fan, be sure to visit the Azadi football stadium and pour for one of the local teams. Football matches in Iran are held on Thursdays and Fridays. The only rule is that women are not allowed to the stadium.

Entertainment in Iran: Horse Riding

In the spring and autumn months, every Thursday horse racing is organized in Iran. Horse racing is connected with the history of Iran. For the first time, the races were mentioned by Xenophon, who described in detail the race itself and the riders. The historian wrote about horse races between the Greeks and Persians, which was arranged by the Persian king Cyrus.

Entertainment in Iran: open-air picnic

Iranians are very fond of spending time outdoors. Those who have the opportunity and time choose to have a picnic in the country. Still, most of the citizens spend time in city parks.