The Mehregan Festival is observed in Iran on October 2, celebrating the ancient Zoroastrian deity Mithra, who symbolizes friendship, love, and affection. This autumn festival, which occurs 195 days after Nowruz, is one of the few pre-Islamic festivals still celebrated by the public in contemporary Iran. Participants typically wear new colorful clothes and set a festive table adorned with dry marjoram, fruits, vegetables, nuts, sweets, and rosewater. Additionally, lotus seeds and silver coins are placed in a dish of marjoram-scented water. Before feasting, families gather in front of a mirror to pray, drink sherbet, and apply sorme (kohl) around their eyes as a good omen.