Muslims in Turkey along with other Muslim populations around the world are preparing to celebrate the Ramadan Feast on July 17, as the day marks the beginning of a three-day holy period in Islam as well as the end of a 30-day fast during the holy month of Ramadan.
All three days of the Ramadan Feast, from July 17 to July 19 this year, are national holidays in Turkey, while the status of Ramadan Feast Eve, which falls on July 16 this year, as a holiday remains unclear.
All public and private employees are off duty during the feast although street sellers, shops and a number of businesses remain at work, as people tend to shop more to buy gifts for their family, friends and relatives.
Most Muslims have fasted during Ramadan, eating only between sunset and sunrise, when there is no sunlight, which is considered a religious duty and essential in the Islamic faith.