Turkish youth in Western Thrace keep the 15th day of Ramadan Tradition alive
The Turkish minority in Western Thrace, Greece, continues to preserve the cultural heritage passed down by their ancestors, keeping alive the traditions that strengthen their community.
A Legacy of Culture and Faith
From the elderly to the youth, members of the Western Thrace Turkish minority dedicate themselves to maintaining their customs with great devotion. Among these Ramadan traditions is the pre-dawn drumming ritual, where drummers roam the streets to wake people for suhoor. Another cherished custom takes place on the 15th night of Ramadan, when young people go door to door in Turkish villages and neighborhoods, playing drums and reciting traditional folk verses, collecting small donations as part of the festivity.
Festivities Across Western Thrace
On Saturday, March 15, 2025, this tradition was once again celebrated in various villages and Turkish neighborhoods across Western Thrace. In Komotini (Gümülcine), young drummers paraded through the streets of Yenice, Bağlar, Kırmahalle, Mastanlı, Kozluköy Yolu, and Harmanlık neighborhoods.
As they played their drums and sang folk couplets, they also collected contributions, a practice deeply embedded in the region's culture. The 15th day of Ramadan tradition has been passed down for generations, reflecting the Turkish minority’s commitment to preserving their religious and cultural identity despite challenges.
This annual event not only strengthens communal bonds but also serves as a vibrant reminder of the rich traditions and unwavering spirit of Western Thrace's Turkish minority.
