5 Famous Festivals in the Maldives – Celebrating Islandic Culture

A majority of Maldives' population are Muslims and therefore Islam plays a key part in the country's culture. As such, Ramadhan and the holy month of Eid are some of the most important and culturally significant periods of time in the country. Most private workplaces close down early during this period of the year. Muslims observe fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity for 30 days. Interestingly, Maldives Island resorts and hotels – such as the Grand Park Kodhipparu – aren't affected by this event and remain open as usual. This means that Ramadan is one of the best times to visit the islands. After all, you'll be able to test a bevy of cultural foods that are made specifically for this festival. What's more, most restaurants will offer special Iftar meals that are loaded with flavour as well as unique Ramadan juices that include accents of rose and apricot. There are some special celebratory activities that take place during this festival as well, these include musical performances and even exciting fire dances.

Also referred to as the Kuda Eid, Eid-ul Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the 10th month – the Shawaal – according to the Islamic calendar. This festival is a cornerstone of the Islamic community around the world and it is treated with great enthusiasm by the people of the Maldives. There is a strong familial theme associated with Eid-ul Fitr and most Maldivians take this as an opportunity to spend time and reconnect with their relatives. One of the more important activities participants end up doing during the festival is donating a portion of their earnings to the poor. This has remained a staple tradition of Eid-ul Fitr for generations.

Bodhu Eid is celebrated on the day after Hajj – typically during the 31st of July. Hajj itself is associated with the annual pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, one which thousands of Muslims make each year. In the Maldives, Bodhu Eid is celebrated by locals coming together and joining with fishermen to catch fish via weaved palm leaves.

The Prophet's Birthday is the celebration of the founder of Islam, the Prophet Muhammed himself. Observed during the 3rd month of the lunar calendar, it is one of the most exciting and celebratory festivals you'll experience in the Maldives. Maldivians celebrate it in a carnival-style, with a large street procession and decorating the mosque. Poems and speeches celebrating the prophet are recited in public for all to hear.

During the 19th century, like much of the sub-continent, the Maldives became a colony of the mighty British Empire. It only received its independence nearly a century later on July 26th, 1965. This is a day for celebration and joy among Maldivians. You'll see plenty of parades, fireworks, and dance performances on the day itself.