Belgium: Ghent to Light Up Its Streets for Ramadan for First Time

Belgium: Ghent to Light Up Its Streets for Ramadan for First Time
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The Belgian city of Ghent is preparing for a landmark cultural moment as it plans to illuminate its main streets for Ramadan 2026 for the first time in its history.

According to reports by lapresse.tn, the initiative is unprecedented in Belgium and is being led by around 100 Muslim shopkeepers organized under the Association of Mosques of Ghent. Special Ramadan-themed light installations will be set up along two of the city’s busiest shopping streets and will be switched on each evening at sunset, coinciding with the time of iftar, the breaking of the fast.

Organizers say the project has a dual purpose: to highlight the presence and contributions of the Muslim community within the city’s social fabric, while also encouraging economic activity in local commercial areas during Ramadan evenings.

Beyond its festive appearance, the initiative is seen as a symbol of growing recognition of cultural and religious diversity in Belgian public spaces. While similar Ramadan lighting displays have been introduced in several other European cities in recent years, this marks the first time such an initiative has been implemented in a Belgian city on this scale.

Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around February 19, with the illuminations remaining in place until the end of the holy month, creating a vibrant evening atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.