During Ramadan, residents in Morocco will witness the arrival of the nafar, a group of messengers dressed in their traditional garb. Dressed in gandora (Moroccan tunic), slippers, and hats, the group signals the start of dawn with their signature melodies. The nafars go around the streets blowing trumpets as a way to wake people up for suhoor. This tradition has spread from the Middle East to Morocco and dates back to the seventh century.

Every year, Egyptians welcome Ramadan with famous, colorful lanterns that symbolize unity and joy throughout the holy month. Although more cultural than religious, this tradition is closely associated with the month of Ramadan and carries deep spiritual significance. Stories about its origins vary, but the most famous version says that famous first appeared one night during the Fatimid Dynasty.

1. Ramadan Cannon (Ramazan Topu)

In some major cities, especially in Istanbul, the sound of cannons marks the time to break the fast.

2. Lights with Islamic Words (Mahya Lights)

One of the typical Turkish traditions is the installation of mahya, which are lights assembled in the form of Islamic writing. Mahya is usually installed between the two minarets of large mosques such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

3. Sahur Music (Davulcu)

In some areas, davulcu (drummers) walk around the village before dawn while singing religious verses to wake up the residents.

4. The Tradition of Breaking the Fast with Pide Bread

In Turkey, pide bread is a must-have food when breaking the fast. It has a soft, round texture and is often topped with sesame seeds.

5. Public Iftar Table

In mosques and city squares, there are free iftar tables provided by the government or social organizations for anyone who wants to break their fast together.

In the evening after breaking their fast, people in Iraq—especially men—gather to play a traditional game called mheibes. This game involves two large groups, with the number of players ranging from 40 to 250. Each player takes turns hiding a ring known as mihbes, which becomes the focus of the game and the search. This activity not only adds joy to the holy month but also strengthens social bonds and the spirit of unity within the community.

In the United Kingdom, Muslims and non-Muslims together broke the fast in the social project "Ramadan Tent Project (RTP)" which was first founded in 2013. In this project, RTP has gathered more than one million people from all over the UK in some of the most iconic, cultural and beloved places in the UK – from Trafalgar Square, Wembley Stadium and Tate Modern in London to King's College, Principality Stadium and V&A Dundee.

The main goal of the Ramadan Tent Project is to help those who are less fortunate or who do not have access to break their fast properly and with dignity. This tradition strengthens social solidarity in England by providing free food and holding religious discussions to increase interfaith understanding.

Garangao Nights have cultural roots related to celebrating the halfway point of Ramadan and bringing joy to children during this holy month. In addition, this celebration is also a way to strengthen social ties within the community.

In some places, people also make traditional handicrafts or food as part of the celebration. This tradition is a symbol of joy and togetherness in welcoming Ramadan.

Muslims in Norway face unique challenges during Ramadan, especially extreme daylight variations. In summer, fasting can last nearly 20 hours, so many follow Mecca’s timing.

Mosques in cities like Oslo and Bergen host iftar gatherings, Taraweeh prayers, and Quran recitations. The diverse Muslim community—Pakistani, Somali, Arab, and Turkish—shares traditional meals and engages in charity.

Schools and workplaces offer some flexibility, though Ramadan isn’t a public holiday. Despite challenges, Ramadan in Norway remains a time of faith, community, and reflection.

Ramadan Lanterns are a unique and fascinating tradition in Lebanon, specifically observed to welcome the holy month of Ramadan. These lanterns are characterized by their beautiful and intricate shapes, as well as their vibrant and radiant colors, which symbolize the light and truth that emanates from Allah SWT.

In Lebanon, Ramadan Lanterns are typically lit at night, casting a warm and festive glow over the surroundings. They are used to decorate homes, mosques, and other public spaces, creating a sense of joy, unity, and celebration among the community.

This tradition holds deep spiritual meaning, representing the purity and cleanliness of the heart that is sought during the month of Ramadan. Through the lighting of Ramadan Lanterns, individuals are reminded of the importance of seeking guidance, forgiveness, and spiritual growth during this sacred period.

Overall, the tradition of Ramadan Lanterns in Lebanon is a beautiful and meaningful expression of faith, community, and celebration, and serves as a vibrant reminder of the values and principles that underlie the holy month of Ramadan.

Arina Manasyikana

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English Club

When Ramadan arrives, the sound of Ramadan cannons fired in several locations in the city signals the time to break the fast. This tradition has been around for a long time and has become a symbol of community togetherness. In the evening, Ramadan tents are set up in hotels and restaurants, serving traditional Arabic dishes for breaking the fast and sahur.

Furthermore, the spirit of charity and sharing is palpable. Many residents and organizations provide iftar boxes and Ramadan fridges filled with free food and drinks for anyone in need. Dubai is also decorated with beautiful lights and fanous, while business hours are adjusted to allow people more time for worship. Ramadan in Dubai is a time to strengthen brotherhood and increase social awareness.

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Yumna Nadya Syafwah

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2.Buying Fresh Food at the Market (Yala Market): Muslims in Southern Thailand will flock to markets, such as in Yala City, to buy various fresh foods and food supplies to prepare for breaking the fast on the first days of Ramadan.

3.Building Gates: As Eid al-Fitr approaches (which begins at the end of Ramadan), Muslims in Southern Thailand often build gates at every main entrance to a mosque or village. This symbolizes the unity and solemnity of the village.

4.A Special Culinary Tradition (Ketupat Daun Kapo): Unlike in Indonesia, the ketupat typical of Southern Thailand is often triangular and wrapped in kapo leaves. This ketupat is served with sweetened condensed milk, not chicken in coconut milk.

5."Rangto" or Sun Chips Culinary Specialty: Residents make traditional cakes called Rangto or sun chips, which are similar to kembang goyang cakes, as snacks during Ramadan.

6.The "6th Eid" (Syawal) Tradition: Although it is carried out after Ramadan, this tradition is very strong in the South, where residents carry out 6 days of sunnah fasting in the month of Syawal and visit family graves.

7.Breaking the Fast Together at the Mosque: The tradition of breaking the fast together at a mosque or prayer room is very common, but unlike in Indonesia, in Southern Thailand, the tradition of intensive communal recitation after Tarawih or dawn prayers at the mosque is rare.

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On this night, children wear traditional colorful clothes and walk around their neighborhoods singing traditional songs. They carry small bags to collect sweets and nuts from neighbors.

It is similar to “trick or treat,” but it celebrates generosity and prepares the community for Ramadan.

This tradition is not part of Ramadan itself, but it is a cultural way to welcome the holy month. It strengthens community bonds and reminds people about kindness and sharing before fasting begins.

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In Amsterdam, Muslims welcome Ramadan by preparing themselves spiritually and socially. Many Muslims visit mosques such as the Westermoskee to pray and attend religious activities.

Before Ramadan begins, families usually buy food supplies and clean their homes. During Ramadan, Muslims often gather at mosques to perform Tarawih prayers and hold community iftar (breaking the fast together).

Even though Muslims are a minority in the Netherlands, the Muslim community in Amsterdam still celebrates Ramadan with prayer, sharing food, and strengthening friendship.

This lantern tradition has existed for a long time and has become a special symbol of Ramadan in Egypt. Before Ramadan begins, many shops sell different kinds of lanterns, making the city look bright and festive.

Besides decorating with lanterns, people in Egypt also prepare special foods for iftar (the meal to break the fast). Families often gather to eat together and sometimes share food with neighbors.

These traditions make Ramadan in Egypt feel warm, joyful, and full of togetherness.

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In the United Kingdom, Muslims welcome Ramadan by preparing spiritually and gathering with their communities. Many Muslims visit mosques such as the East London Mosque to pray and attend religious programs before and during Ramadan.

Mosques and Islamic organizations also organize community iftar, where people break their fast together. During Ramadan, many Muslims attend Tarawih prayers at night and increase charity activities.

Even though Muslims are a minority in the UK, Ramadan is celebrated with a strong sense of community, prayer, and sharing with others. 🌙

Religious and social gatherings are central to the month. Mosques and Islamic centers, especially large ones like the Japan Islamic Center, become busy hubs for Tarawih prayers and religious study groups. Community iftars are a highlight—hosted by mosques, Islamic centers, and embassies of Muslim countries, these events bring together Muslims and often non-Muslim guests to foster intercultural bonds. In major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kobe, many also gather at Arab or halal restaurants to break their fast with family and friends.

Muslims adapt smoothly to daily life during Ramadan. When the month falls in cool seasons (like late February to late March in 2025), they maintain regular work and school routines while carefully preparing suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar meals to balance worship and busy schedules. Charitable acts are also a key part—they donate food, money, and clothes to those in need, both within the Muslim community and the wider Japanese society, embodying the spirit of generosity that defines Ramadan. Additionally, some communities organize special events for children, such as religious education classes and small gifts, to help younger generations learn about and feel excited about the holy month.

Ramadan in Egypt is celebrated with great enthusiasm and togetherness. One of the most famous traditions is the Fanous Ramadan, which consists of colorful lanterns hung in homes, streets, shops, and mosques. These lanterns are usually lit at night, adding a beautiful atmosphere to the city. The Fanous tradition has existed for hundreds of years and has become a distinctive symbol of Ramadan in Egypt. Children often carry lanterns and sing and play with their friends at night.

Furthermore, Egyptians also have a tradition of breaking the fast with family or neighbors. When it's time to break the fast, they usually enjoy a variety of specialties such as dates, soup, and other traditional dishes. Among the dishes often served are kunafa and qatayef, sweet desserts that are very popular during Ramadan.

In some places, people also set up free food tables on the streets called Mawaid Al-Rahman. These tables are available for anyone wishing to break their fast, especially those traveling or in need. This tradition demonstrates the sense of care and togetherness of the Egyptian people during Ramadan.

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