Damascus, Feb. 19 (SANA) As dusk settled over the Old City this week, strings of colored lights flickered on above narrow alleyways and brass lanterns glinted in shop windows, welcoming Ramadan.
In Damascus’ historic al-Hamidiyeh and al-Asruniyeh markets, merchants say business has picked up in recent days as families prepare for the holy month, one of the most important periods in the Islamic calendar.
“It’s always like this just before Ramadan,” said Nidal Mardini, who sells decorative lights and paper garlands. “People want to bring the atmosphere home.”
Rows of crescent-shaped ornaments and glowing lanterns hang from storefronts, casting warm reflections on the stone pavements. Shoppers move between stalls comparing prices and inspecting designs, many of them pausing to take photos beneath the lights.
Merchants say this year’s season feels steadier than in the recent past. In previous years, when materials were scarce, prices jumped sharply, Mardini said. He said import difficulties had previously driven up costs by as much as 35 percent to 40 percent. This season, however, supply has improved, giving customers more choice and helping keep prices relatively stable.
“Most of the buying happens three or four days before the month starts,” said Rashid al-Hamwi, who works at another shop in al-Hamidiyeh. “After that, things calm down. It’s good, but not extraordinary.”
For many residents, the decorations are about more than commerce.
“Ramadan decorations aren’t just items you buy,” said shopper Abir Alean. “They’re a message of joy and hope. They remind us of our traditions.”
Another shopper, Nawzat Jarkas, said the practice of hanging lanterns has become a generational ritual. “It brings back the spirit of the neighborhood,” he said, referring to the communal gatherings before and after the evening meal that breaks the daily fast.
In Damascus, lanterns and strings of lights have long marked the days leading up to Ramadan. For shopkeepers, it’s a short but important commercial season.
N.J
