Ramadan is considered one of the holiest months of the year for Muslims. In Ramadan, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Qur’an, and fast from food and drink during the sunlit hours to draw closer to God and cultivate self-control, gratitude, and compassion for the less fortunate. Ramadan is a month of intense spiritual rejuvenation with a heightened focus on devotion, during which Muslims spend extra time reading the Qur’an and performing special prayers. Those unable to fast, such as pregnant or nursing women, the sick, elderly people and children, are exempt from fasting.

Fasting does not automatically mean less or lighter food for Moroccans; it simply means not eating during daylight hours. Moroccans will awaken before the sun rises, to fuel themselves for the day with their breakfast. Then when the sun goes down, they will have their Iftar or Ftoor meals. It is a time for family members to gather around, share their tasty meal and exchange stories. It is a time of celebration, happiness and enjoyment and takes a few hours. Moroccans will often have guests over too.

Morocco remains colourful and vibrant during Ramadan, with hotels and restaurants open as usual, although shop opening hours may vary slightly depending on the region. Tourists are warmly welcomed and are not restricted in their usual habits — there is no need to refrain from eating or drinking during daytime hours. The great advantage of travelling to Morocco during Ramadan is the unique opportunity to experience the country, its people and its culture in a more authentic and intense way, away from the main travel season.

The (usually) 27th night of Ramadan celebrates the Qur’an revelation every year. It is a very special and spiritual night for Muslims. All family members gather together and give each other gifts, for example, Moroccan clothes such as kaftans, or even cash. During this night people practise Tarawih, which are prayers performed in groups or pairs throughout the night. Some people prefer to pray at home, however, many men gather at their mosque and stay there all night. Once the prayers are finished, mint tea and cookies are offered. Another special practice is Bkhour which is performed by burning a fragrant dry plant in each house to spread its beautiful scents.

After 29 to 30 days of continuous fasting, faithful prayers and total obedience, Moroccans end their spiritual adventure and break their fast. It is time to celebrate the feast called Eid al-Fitr. This a wonderfully joyous occasion when everyone visits their families. It is a time for forgiveness and compassion between all members of the Muslim community. It is considered the day of reward, and victory celebration! Women clean and decorate their houses; they wear their special Eid garments and decorated jellabas. They buy new outfits for their children and prepare a collection of homemade cookies, cakes and pastries. Men attend the feast prayers then visit their relatives.