Halfway through Ramadan, the celebration of Qaranqasho, to acknowledge the efforts of young children who joined in the observations of the holy season in their own little way, brings forth a heartwarming display of family traditions

Qaranqasho is a beloved tradition that shines brightly during the 14th night of Ramadan in Oman, bringing communities together in a vibrant celebration of joy, unity, and cultural warmth. It will be celebrated all over Oman tomorrow.

This festive occasion is particularly special for children, who enthusiastically take part in the festivities, whether in homes, schools, parks, charities, or shopping malls. With its rich cultural significance, Qaranqasho has become a key event that reflects the warmth and spirit of the holy month, uniting Omani families and neighbours in celebration.

At the heart of the celebration is the exchange of gifts and sweets, which fosters a deep sense of community and belonging. Khalid al Balushi, a resident of Muttrah, shared his excitement with Muscat Daily, saying, “We celebrate Qaranqasho on the 14th night of Ramadan. This year, we are organising a large gathering and inviting all the children in our family. We have decorated our house and bought gifts to distribute to the children. It’s such a special occasion.”

Cultural researcher Dr Maha al Harthy reflected on the deeper meaning behind the tradition, noting that Qaranqasho is a dynamic celebration that has adapted over time while staying true to its roots. “The tradition of giving gifts has expanded beyond dates and money, but the essence remains – it’s about fostering a sense of community, gratitude, and the joy of giving. This celebration bridges generations, reinforcing values of generosity and hospitality that are central to Omani culture.”

Dr Harthy also explained the significance of the name –  Qaranqasho is derived from the Omani colloquial term Qarqash, meaning ‘give me,’ which captures the festive spirit of the occasion. It takes place on the 14th night of Ramadan, marking a moment of joy in the middle of the holy month.

For many, Qaranqasho is more than just a time to exchange gifts. Naser al Hosni, a resident of Shinas, emphasised its role in preserving Oman’s cultural heritage. “Qaranqasho plays a vital role in promoting Oman’s cultural identity. Events like this give younger generations a chance to connect with traditional customs and ensure their continuity,” he said.

Fatima al Badi, a mother from Salalah, shared the importance of teaching younger generations about social bonds and charity. “It’s about bringing families, neighbors, and friends together. We use this time to teach our children the value of charity, especially during Ramadan. The joy on the children’s faces as they visit different homes is priceless, and it strengthens a sense of community.”

In recent years, the spirit of giving has extended beyond just exchanging sweets and gifts. Many families now use Qaranqasho as an opportunity to donate food, clothing, and money to those in need. Aisha al Shamsi from Nizwa highlighted this charitable aspect saying, “Qaranqasho is not just a celebration for us – it’s a chance to give back to those who may be less fortunate. In rural areas, families take this time to visit neighbours and share the festive spirit.”

For Salim al Kindi, a resident of Sur, the celebration signifies the unity that defines Omani culture. “While gifts and sweets are central to the occasion, the house visits, songs, and shared laughter symbolise the unity and respect that bind us together. It’s not just about the material exchange, but about reinforcing the bonds of community.”

Historian Ahmed al Farsi offered insights into how Qaranqasho is celebrated differently across Oman. “In Muscat and other urban areas, Qaranqasho has become a larger public celebration with organised get-togethers in neighbourhoods. In contrast, rural areas still maintain a more intimate, family-centred celebration, where children walk from house to house, often covering great distances to visit each home in their community. Regardless of the setting, the core values of the event remain unchanged – togetherness, generosity, and family.”