Ramadan in Türkiye: Daily life, cultural traditions, spiritual significance

The call to prayer echoes through the evening sky as the sun dips below the horizon. The streets, quiet just moments ago, stir with anticipation. A rhythmic drumbeat breaks the silence, signaling the arrival of another Ramadan in Türkiye.

In bustling neighborhoods and tranquil villages alike, families gather around tables set with warm Ramadan pidesi, fragrant stews, and bowls of glistening dates. The monthlong journey of fasting, reflection, and communal traditions has begun.

Ramadan is more than a religious observance; it is a time when the fabric of daily life shifts, embracing a rhythm of devotion, generosity, and togetherness. From the pre-dawn meal of sahur (pre-dawn meal) to the vibrant iftar (fast-breaking meal) gatherings at sunset, each day is shaped by customs that have endured for centuries.

The glow of mahya lights strung between mosque minarets illuminates the night, while the distant boom of the iftar cannon signals the breaking of the fast. Ramadan in Türkiye is a blend of the old and the new, where deeply rooted traditions continue to thrive in modern times.

Preparations before Ramadan in Türkiye: Deep cleaning, stocking up on essential foods

In many Turkish households, preparations for Ramadan begin well before the first day of fasting. Traditionally, homes are thoroughly cleaned in what is known as “Ramadan cleaning.”

This practice symbolizes a fresh start, ensuring the house is ready for the holy month. Special attention is given to dining sets, which are often reserved for guests, and kitchens are stocked with essential foods for sahur and iftar.

Markets and bazaars become bustling hubs in the days leading up to Ramadan in Türkiye. Shoppers buy ingredients for traditional dishes, including dates, olives, and lentils.

Ramadan pidesi, a round, soft bread covered in sesame and nigella seeds, is an essential item, and long queues form outside bakeries just before sunset.

Sahur traditions: Drummers wake people up during Ramadan in Türkiye

Sahur is an important meal that sustains people throughout the day, and although that has not changed, how believers wake up has.

While alarm clocks and phone reminders have replaced traditional wake-up methods for many, Ramadan drummers still roam the streets before dawn, beating their drums and reciting rhyming couplets to awaken households.

This centuries-old tradition, dating back to the Ottoman period, continues in many neighborhoods. Drummers often receive small tips from residents at the end of the month as a token of appreciation.

Mahya lights on mosques displaying meaningful Ramadan messages

One of the most visually striking traditions of Ramadan in Türkiye is the display of “mahya lights”.

These illuminated messages, suspended between the minarets of mosques, convey spiritual and moral messages such as “Welcome Ramadan” or “Peace Be Upon You.”

The art of mahya, which dates back to the 17th century, was originally done with oil lamps but is now created using electric bulbs. Istanbul’s historic mosques, including the Blue Mosque and Suleymaniye Mosque, display some of the most impressive mahya lights each year.

Iftar customs: Communal gatherings during Ramadan in Türkiye

Iftar, the meal that breaks the fast, is a moment of togetherness. Traditionally, people begin with dates and water before moving on to soup and main dishes. Turkish iftar tables are known for their variety, featuring dishes such as lentil soup, stuffed vine leaves, and meat stews.

• Dis kirasi (tooth rent): In Ottoman times, wealthy families invited those in need to their homes for iftar and offered small gifts to guests as a gesture of hospitality. This practice continues today in the form of charitable public iftars.
• Iftar tents: Municipalities and organizations set up large iftar gatherings where anyone can join and share a meal. These events emphasize the communal and inclusive nature of Ramadan.
• Zimem defteri: A modern continuation of this tradition includes anonymously paying off debts for those in need, a practice rooted in Ottoman times.

Role of the iftar cannon, Ramadan entertainment across Türkiye

The firing of an iftar cannon is another long-standing tradition. Originally introduced during Ottoman rule, this practice alerts people to the time of breaking the fast. While mosques now announce the call to prayer via loudspeakers, the symbolic firing of the cannon remains an integral part of Ramadan in some cities.

Ramadan entertainment:

• In the past, coffeehouses and public squares hosted storytellers, musicians, and poets.
• Shadow puppet theater featuring Karagoz and Hacivat was a key part of evenings during Ramadan in Türkiye.
• Today, cultural events, fairs, and performances continue in various cities, keeping the festive atmosphere alive.

What is the significance of Tarawih prayers in Ramadan nights?

Following iftar, many people head to mosques for Tarawih prayers during Ramadan in Türkiye.

• These special nightly prayers are performed in congregation and hold a significant place in the spiritual rhythm of Ramadan in Türkiye.
• Families, including children, often attend together, strengthening communal bonds.

How are children introduced to fasting during Ramadan in Türkiye?

While fasting is obligatory for adults, children are encouraged to participate in a modified version called tekne orucu (boat fasting).

• This practice allows children to fast for half a day, breaking their fast at noon rather than sunset.

• To celebrate their effort, they often receive small gifts or sweets, making Ramadan a memorable experience from an early age.

Traditional Ramadan foods: Gullac and special sherbets

No Ramadan in Türkiye is complete without the dessert gullac. This light, milk-based dessert made from thin layers of starch-based pastry, pomegranate seeds, and nuts dates back to the Ottoman palace kitchens. Its delicate texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect post-iftar treat.

Another staple of Ramadan is Ramadan sherbet, a refreshing drink made from a mixture of fruits and spices. These drinks, once sold by street vendors carrying large ornamental jugs, were believed to aid digestion and provide hydration after a long day of fasting.

Ramadan in Türkiye: How traditions continue to shape daily life

Many of these traditions, from sahur drummers to Ramadan markets, continue to be an integral part of life in Türkiye. While some customs have changed over time, their essence remains the same.

Ramadan is still a time for gathering with family and friends, sharing meals, and engaging in acts of charity. The balance between religious devotion, cultural customs, and social engagement makes Ramadan a defining month in Türkiye’s calendar, bringing people together in meaningful ways.