It’s that time of year again. But this year, things are looking up*. After two years of spending Ramadan in tight restrictions and lockdowns, curfews and public health measures to fight Coronavirus, we’re back to a recognizable lifestyle and are looking forward to spending Ramadan just like we did B.C. (Before Corona).

Part of diving into life as we once knew it, but while implementing reasonable measures we’ve learned to stay safe, is to embrace the Ramadan traditions we used to hold close to our hearts. While Ramadan is a holy and important time of the year for Muslims worldwide, it’s also our holiday season. This means that reconnecting with old traditions is the best way to celebrate with our families. Here are a few ways to get back into the moments you once shared with your friends and family during Ramadan.

Community Activities
Kuwait has a local humanitarian movement that is quite strong with support for the less fortunate. Because Ramadan is a time to give back, taking part in donation movements to feed families with iftars is a great idea. There’s something special about taking the time to do something for others, when you put in the effort personally, the reward feels so much greater. Our recommendation: You don’t have to be fancy about this. Grab some friends, buy some ready-made meals and drive out to your closest mosque or coop right at Iftar time to stop those still on the road to feed them. Another idea is to host a Ramadan potluck for Iftar, and gather small donations from friends and family toward sponsoring a family’s (or more) Ramadan basket or Machla.

Iftar Invitations
Breaking bread (and your fast) with family and friends is a fulfilling and festive activity. It’s special to get together with people of all backgrounds and enjoy a feast together, while learning about different traditions and family values from other parts of the region and the globe. And if you’re lucky, you get to leave with leftovers! Our recommendation: Don’t show up empty handed. A tray of dates, a bouquet of flowers or a delicious dessert is always welcome when you’re joining somebody’s family for iftar.

Ghabqat
Similar to iftar, Ghabqas are a great way for people to connect in the after hours. Everybody socializes after breaking their fast, which is extra fun during Ramadan when everything is open later. Scheduling a rotation of ghabqas to attend is always fun, and gives you opportunities to gift, share and show off your new kaftans. Our recommendation: Don’t be stingy with the ghabqas! Support local restaurants and host one in a private dining room if your budget allows for it. You won’t have to worry about the cleanup after.

Gergea’an
Is there anything cuter than this age-old tradition of children going door to door and collecting candy? Over the course of three days during the middle of Ramadan, the Kuwaiti version of trick or treat brings adorable and elaborately dressed children to your doorstep with baskets asking for candy, and friends with toddlers and newborns send treats to your house. Yum! Our recommendation: During gergea’an, children tend to be high on sugar and as a result, merciless. So tread carefully, but also use your adult powers to your advantage.

Ramadrama Viewing Parties
We don’t mean actual parties, but having a couple of friends over right before iftar to watch your favorite Ramadan soaps together is always a great time. It helps speed up the final hours of fasting and adds an extra sense of community to the festive season. Our recommendation: If your preference is to not see anyone until after Iftar, (which trust us, we understand completely), then don’t worry! Ramadramas are always repeated in the evening so you can group up with your buddies and watch them then when everyone has eaten and is in a good mood.

Scenic Drives
Kuwait roads and traffic are not the greatest experience at the best of times, but if you are fortunate to be able to experience the roads when they are quiet, it is bliss. If you can, try to drive to work an hour earlier and leave at least an hour later than the shortened office hours for Ramadan. Also, if you don’t have to observe Iftar with friends or family, driving around during that time is great, too. On your day off get up early and drive to somewhere you normally wouldn’t go to, and enjoy Kuwait at its finest. Our recommendation: Avoid getting on the roads just before Iftar if possible, because that will save you some of the scary driving done out of desperation to break the fast.

*We assume. Things are still fine as we’re writing this article, but you never know, right? Keep staying safe!