As the crescent moon appears in the Moroccan sky, a symphony of age-old rituals awakens, weaving a story of faith and tradition.
Fez – In Morocco, Ramadan is a special time filled with unique traditions passed down through generations.
Once the crescent moon, which marks the beginning of Ramadan, is sighted, Moroccans hear the sound of “nfir” seven times.
This trumpet-like call, a practice unique to Morocco, is performed by a person known as the “nfar”, similar to the role of the “musaharati” in other cultures.
The “nfar” walks through neighborhoods at night, playing his large horn to wake families for the pre-dawn meal, “suhoor”.
He is usually adorned in traditional Moroccan clothing, mainly a djellaba and a head turban, adding to the cultural essence of this role.
Throughout Ramadan, Moroccans often greet each other with the phrase “awachir mabrouka,” which means blessed days.
This sacred month is divided into three parts: the first ten days for mercy, the next ten for forgiveness, and the last ten for salvation from the fire.
They also refer to the holy month as “sidi Ramadan” (Sir Ramadan,) a title that shows their deep respect and spiritual connection to this sacred time.
A unique tradition in Morocco is called “tkhiyyat nhar” or stitching the day. This practice encourages children to start fasting gradually. A child might fast for half a day, then break their fast, and later fast another half-day.
These two halves are metaphorically “stitched” together, symbolizing a full day of fasting. This approach helps children get used to fasting easily and gradually.
Moroccan Ramadan is also about sharing, kindness, and celebrating culture. Families prepare special meals like “harira” (Moroccan soup), “sellou” (a sweet nutty mixture), and “briouats” (savory stuffed pastries).
These foods bring families together around the iftar table, reflecting the warmth and hospitality that are hallmarks of Moroccan culture.
The most adorable tradition of them all is “lilat sabaa w achrin,” the 27th night of Ramadan, where mothers dress up their daughters as brides and take them to “negaffa” the wedding for a tour in “amariya” accompanied with “dqayqya” a band plays in weddings and ululations.
Guys are not excluded from the festivities, however. Mothers also dress up their sons in traditional Moroccan outfits.
For Moroccans, Ramadan is not just a religious observance but a time of unity, heritage, and devotion.
It’s a month where traditions are celebrated, and values are strengthened, connecting people with their faith and each other.
Read also: One Moroccan Dish, A Thousand Names
