As part of the official Oulu2026 – European Capital of Culture programme, Terve Ramadan stands as a unique cultural encounter in the north, introducing Arabian cultures to Oulu and, for the first time, celebrating Ramadan publicly with everyone in th
Sharing the Meaning of Ramadan Across Arabian Cultures
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a time of reflection, generosity, and community. In Terve Ramadan, this meaning is shared through a tangible cultural experience at Valkea Shopping Centre, where the stage will be decorated with handmade, customised decorations inspired by the geometric patterns and artistic traditions of different Arab countries. These designs reflect a range of regional influences and offer Finnish audiences a visual introduction to Arabian art and aesthetics. The stage setting will also include a photo booth, inviting visitors to engage with the space and capture the experience.
Terve Ramadan in VALKEA shopping center stage
Through Terve Ramadan, the aim is to share how different Arabian countries welcome Ramadan, offering insights into diverse practices and expressions from across the Arab world. This cultural sharing will take place through informative brochures and direct interaction with the event team and Culture Companion volunteers at the tables in front of the stage daily from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. During these hours, visitors are invited to take part in crafting activities, coloring sessions, explore cultural traditions, and enjoy small delicacies and giveaways, creating approachable moments for learning, dialogue, and connection.
Welcoming Ramadan Across the Arab World
While Ramadan is united by shared values, its cultural expressions vary widely across the Arab world. Terve Ramadan highlights this diversity, presenting examples that reflect local histories and community life.
In many Gulf countries, Ramadan is welcomed through shared iftar meals, where families, neighbours, and visitors gather at sunset to break the fast together, reinforcing hospitality and social connection.
Across North Africa, the arrival of Ramadan is marked by vibrant communal traditions. In Egypt, colourful Ramadan lanterns (fanous) illuminate homes and streets, symbolising joy and togetherness. In Morocco, neighbourhoods come alive with communal prayers and shared food customs.
In parts of the Gulf and neighbouring regions, children take part in joyful traditions such as Karakean (also known as Garangao or similar regional names), where they gather, sing, and visit homes, celebrating generosity, community spirit, and cultural continuity.
By presenting these traditions side by side, Terve Ramadan offers Ramadan not as a single, uniform experience, but as a mosaic of cultural practices, inviting audiences in Oulu to explore the richness and diversity within Arabian cultures themselves.
A First-of-Its-Kind Event in Oulu
Terve Ramadan marks the first open, city-wide Ramadan celebration in Oulu, inviting everyone to participate regardless of cultural or religious background. The event creates a shared space for learning and connection, reinforcing inclusion and intercultural exchange as core dimensions of the Oulu2026 programme.
Culture Companion as Cultural Creator
Terve Ramadan exemplifies the expanded role of the Culture Companion programme within Oulu2026. From the very beginning, the idea was supported and encouraged through the Culture Climate Change programme, which played a key role in backing the concept and supporting its inclusion in the official Oulu2026 programme. As a result, Culture Companions are not only event partners but also cultural creators, with Terve Ramadan standing as one of the programme’s own initiatives.
A Volunteer-Led Vision Brought to Life
The event is entirely created and implemented by volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including members of Ahlan Suomessa Association and the Culture Companion volunteering programme. Through determination, creativity, and hands-on learning, the volunteers overcame challenges and transformed a shared vision into a living cultural experience, highlighting the strength of volunteer-driven culture within Oulu2026.
A Satellite Community Potluck at the University of Oulu
Complementing the main programme, a satellite potluck event will take place at the University of Oulu on 20 February, as part of the university’s Oulu2026 culture programme. The gathering emphasizes community, togetherness, and shared experiences, echoing the social values of Ramadan and the broader aims of cultural exchange.
