Ghent to debut festive Ramadan lights in historic Belgian first
Ghent municipal authorities have granted necessary permits for installation, supporting what organizers hope will become annual tradition
GHENT, Belgium (MNTV) – Ghent will illuminate two shopping districts with special Ramadan decorations this year, marking what organizers believe is the first initiative of its kind in Belgium.
Approximately 100 local retailers are backing the project, coordinated by the Association of Ghent Mosques (VGM), as reported by Flanders News.
The festive lights will be installed along Bevrijdingslaan-Phoenixstraat at Brugse Poort and Wondelgemstraat in the Rabot district, areas where many merchants have Muslim backgrounds.
“We have been asking for this for years and are delighted that it is finally happening,” said shopkeeper Fatih Şenel, noting widespread enthusiasm among local businesses.
Mohamed Abd El Motleb Omar of the VGM described the displays as comparable to Christmas lights but with an oriental aesthetic.
The same company providing London’s Ramadan illuminations, now in its fourth year, will supply Ghent’s decorations, promising a spectacular result.
Similar initiatives exist in Cologne, Germany, and several Dutch cities, though Brussels efforts have been smaller in scale.
“We hope it will become a new tradition in Ghent,” Abd El Motleb Omar said to Flanders News.
The lights will be installed during the week before Ramadan begins around February 19, remaining throughout the month-long fasting period until Eid al-Fitr on March 19 or 20.
They will switch on each evening at sunset, when daily fasting concludes.
Abd El Motleb Omar noted the parallel to Christmas festivities, as these shopping streets experience increased foot traffic during Ramadan with people conducting their shopping. The VGM purchased the decorations and is covering all associated costs, though organizers declined to disclose the exact budget.
Ghent municipal authorities have granted necessary permits for the installation, supporting what organizers hope will become an annual tradition celebrating the city’s diverse community.
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