Iftar cannon firing in its fourth week continues to captivate

Doha: The firing of the Iftar cannon is a longstanding tradition in many countries, including Qatar. It has become a public event that is eagerly awaited by many citizens and residents each year during the holy month of Ramadan.

This year, the Iftar cannon is fired from several locations across the country, including Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Village, Souq Al Wakra, Old Doha Port, and Lusail Boulevard. The cannon is fired every day during Ramadan to signal the end of the daily fast.

"Today, the Iftar cannon remains an important tradition in Qatar, serving as a symbolic reminder of the importance of Ramadan and the joyous celebration of breaking the fast with family and friends. It serves as an invitation to come together and convene so that we can all eat," Qatari Nasser Al Naama told The Peninsula.

"It's nostalgic and brings back a lot of childhood memories. When I was a kid, I thought the cannon would actually hit something because we weren't sure where it went or if it will land on someone," said the 35-year-old entrepreneur.

"Iftar cannon is a tangible reminder of the blessed month. As a Qatari, it's nice to see that even if Ramadan is already in its fourth week, many expatriates still go to the five locations to witness the cannon firing. These are the small things that I hope won't change," he said.

While the firing of the Iftar cannon is observed with great respect and reverence, many residents gather to watch it for several reasons.

Iftar cannon firing at Souq Al Wakrah. Pic: Marivie Alabanza / The Peninsula

Singaporean Hasnah Mohamed Samidin, who came with her husband and son to see the cannon being fired at Souq Al Wakra, said they have been following the firing of Iftar cannons in the country for the past five years.

"It's fascinating to witness this. We never had this in Singapore and found this whole thing very interesting, so we make certain that every year the firing is not missed, except during the pandemic."

"This year, Souq Al Wakra is our final stop, having visited the other four. It's a very unique and nice part of a culture that has been preserved, despite the fact that Qatar has now become a relatively modern country," she said.
 
Her son Rayan was quick to say: "I enjoy watching the cannons fire. It's pretty good, but it can get too loud at times, and I believe today is the loudest ever."

People gather to witness the Iftar cannon firing at Old Doha Port. Pic: Marivie Alabanza / The Peninsula

Kala Bala Raja Sekar from India also came with her husband and two children to witness the firing at the Old Doha Port.

"This has become a family affair. After our first visit to Souq Waqif, the kids were the ones who encouraged us to see more of the cannon firing. It has been a weekend routine for us, as we also promised the kids that we will take them to all five locations."

"This is a great bonding activity for us, plus the kids get to learn more about Ramadan, for example how this cultural tradition has been passed down through generations," Sekar told The Peninsula.

Iftar cannon firing at Katara. Image: Katara Cultural Village

Rodelyn Go from the Philippines was also at the Doha Port but was unaware of the Iftar cannon firing. "I came here to walk as my doctor advised, but I saw people gathering and learned that a cannon would be fired, so I waited. I must admit that it was somewhat loud because I was so close, but I will return because I was unable to capture a photograph."

"It's good to see people clapping and smiling after the firing. I'll invite my family and friends to come with me the next time."

Cindy Wai from Malaysia said that this was her second time witnessing the cannon firing; the first was in Souq Waqif in 2022.

"I just want to experience it again and at the same time take photos and videos to share with my family back home. I like what I'm seeing—people of different nationalities coming together to observe the occasion as a community," she remarked.

More than a tradition, the firing of the Ramadan Iftar cannon in Qatar is a symbolic event and is observed with great respect and regard by both locals and residents.

Heard a loud sound nearby during sunset? It's likely the #IftarCannon ????✨

This ancient tradition is said to have started in Egypt & then spread to Arab countries!#FeelRamadanInQatar #QatarCalendar #VisitQatar #In_Qatar #InQatar #Doha #QatarEvents pic.twitter.com/5S6tKEDe4A

— Qatar Calendar (@QatarCalendar) April 4, 2023