Expected to begin around March 10 or 11, Ramadan in the Muslim faith is a time of fasting and reflection. But it is also a time of togetherness and Qatar offers a range of activities throughout the month focussed on community-based entertainment.

Katara Cultural Village
Bordered by a vast beach on one side and the twin Katara Hills on the other, Katara is Doha’s go-to destination for art, culture and cuisine. There is always loads to do there from visiting the stunning mosques to exploring Al Thuraya Planetarium. And during the Holy Month, Katara generally hosts an array of activities such the Ramadan Lantern Festival, competitions for kids and adults, gaming and sports championships and special storytelling. It’s also one of the spots the for canon firing to mark the end of the day’s fast. This year’s programme is still to be released.
GO: Visit katara.net for more information.

Lusail Boulevard
This is a venue that’s really come into its own in recent times hosting numerous events and exhibitions and Ramadan is no exception. Throughout the Holy Month, the boulevard is usually pedestrianised between the Magrib and dawn prayers, offering the perfect opportunity to take a balmy evening walk. Each day before Iftar there’s a car parade which sees motoring enthusiasts showing off their fancy vehicles. Expect tents and Ramadan activities as well as the daily canon firing at sunset. The 2024 programme is still to be confirmed.
GO: Visit lusail.com for more information.

Qatar Foundation
Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development is a state-led non-profit that runs interesting events and initiatives throughout the year. During the Holy Month, it stages a series of Islamic talks alongside various workshops and cultural activations. The much loved Glow in the Dark Run also usually takes place during this period as well as charity initiatives and there are also special activities for the youngsters and food trucks all staged in Oxygen Park. This year’s events are still to be confirmed.
GO: Visit qf.org.qa for more information.

The Pearl
Head to The Pearl for a shopping experience to remember with the Ramadan Bazaar. Presenting brightly coloured stalls and traditional activities, this is the place to stock up on all your Holy Month essentials, from clothing to décor, as you take in the gorgeous views of The Pearl island. It’s also very popular for the traditional Gergaoon (or Garagao) festival in which children dress up in traditional clothes and sing Qatari songs while collecting small gifts and candies. The shopping fest usually runs from after Iftar until late. Details are still to be confirmed.
GO: Visit @thepearlqatar for more information.

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Experiencing Traditions
The Ramadan Canon Firing – Some say this tradition started in Egypt, others claim it began in the Ottoman Empire, with the canon’s loud voice announcing to all near and far the setting of the sun and time to break the fast. The tradition continues in Qatar with the canon firing broadcast live on Qatar TV. You can experience real thing at locations across the city, including Souq Waqif, Katara, Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab Grand Mosque or Souq Al Wakra.
Garangao – Celebrated exclusively in the Gulf, on the 14th day of Ramadan, it celebrates children as they attempt to fast. Youngsters dress up in traditional attire and knock on doors singing songs and dancing to collect Garangao– mixed bags of nuts, sweets, candies and coins. Special Garagao ceremonies are held at events and Iftars across the country