Turkish society has the rare trait of blending cultural traditions with religious requirements, and Ramadan is the best illustration. The holy Muslim month in Turkey is not merely about fasting and then breaking the fast. It is rather a festival in which the fast-breaking dinner (iftar) doubles as a festive assembly for endless talk with family and friends, followed by entertainment in the streets. Thus for Turks, Ramadan is both about fulfilling religious duties and socializing.
Among the most popular Ramadan venues are the so-called “iftar tents” organized by all municipalities regardless of their political affiliations. Though their original purpose was to offer food to the poor, the tents have become lively social venues. On July 4, Al-Monitor visited the iftar spread in the Youth Park in downtown Ankara. Though commonly referred to as a tent, it is actually an outdoor venue with tables set on lawns around a pool, hosting up to 2,500 people.
