Ramadan

The Holy Month of Ramadan is a special time in Turkey. We’ll tell you about this wonderful holiday common for all Islamic countries, but having a special, Turkish flavor.

What is Ramadan

It is a monthly period, during which Muslims must fast during daylight hours. As a rule, from the morning prayer (service in the mosque) to the evening one. Moreover, they are not allowed to have even a snack. During Ramadan there are such prohibitions as a ban on sex, smoking, committing evil deeds (all that is associated with anger, envy, etc.), use of cosmetics. At the same time Ramadan is a very joyful holiday, so the believers should not be in low spirits.

When it is celebrated

Actually the holiday begins with the end of Ramadan, after which the faithful reach an enlightened state. At 4:00 am the drummer from the minaret announces to the whole Islamic world that the fasting is over and it’s time for the holiday. A real carnival begins in Istanbul! Near the Blue Mosque they make shows, musical and theater performances... This citywide celebration lasts several days. Of course, the Turks seek to catch up after a period of fasting and begin to eat a lot.

How do they eat

At the end of Ramadan a true celebration of gluttony begins in Turkey. Breakfast at the end of fasting begins with the traditional dates. There are also many desserts and various Turkish olives, produced in large quantities.

How the holiday is held in Istanbul

During the fasting they set tents directly on the central squares, where they prepare food for the poor. For such charitable dinners come not only those who are in need, but also... the City Hall officials. This is done in order to draw together the bureaucrats and common people. They serve cheese, meat, milk, ayran, dairy products, and, of course, rice! Rice is the main dish during Ramadan and after its ending. Turks prepare it in a special way. First, they melt butter in a kettle, then fry elongated rice in it and after that fill it with water and boil without stirring. It is very tasty, Yum!

When the fasting begins

There is no exact way to determine the start of fasting, so the Turks are focusing on the new moon.

When the fasting ends

Official end of Ramadan is Ramadan Bairam, which begins at sundown on the last day of the fasting month and lasts for two days. After the prayer the Turks begin a festive feast, during which they treat each other and their neighbors.