Qaranqasho Brings Colour and Culture Spirit to Brisbane

A vibrant celebration of the Qaranqasho tradition brought colour and joy to Brisbane as Omani families marked one of Ramadhan’s most cherished customs over the weekend. The event witnessed the spirit of the tradition among children and kept its cultural essence alive — showing that being far from Oman does not mean this beautiful tradition is forgotten.
In the weeks leading up to the gathering, families prepared enthusiastically, planning activities, coordinating decorations and arranging traditional dishes to ensure the celebration reflected the beauty of Qaranqasho. On the day of the event, homes and the venue were lit with soft fairy lights, Ramadhan decorations, creating a warm and festive atmosphere that welcomed everyone as they arrived.
The celebration also attracted families from other cultures, including Iraqis who joined in wholeheartedly. In Iraq, a similar tradition known as Majeena is celebrated during Ramadhan.
Children quickly became the heart of the celebration. Dressed in beautiful traditional attire, they filled the space with laughter, songs and excitement. Their energy set the tone for the evening as they sang Qaranqasho chants, played together and proudly showcased their colourful garments. One of the most memorable moments came when the children began exchanging sweets. They were so excited for this event and so happy to share their sweets, offering candies, chocolates and small treats to one another with bright smiles.

The celebration was also rich with flavours. Families prepared beautiful homemade dishes, filling tables with traditional foods and desserts that brought a taste of home to Brisbane. To make the evening even more special, gifts and giveaways were handed to the children and the mothers, who received them with delight.
Amidst the joyful atmosphere, parents expressed how meaningful the day was for them. Ruqaya al Ramadhani, a mother of three and a PhD student at the University of Queensland, shared her happiness:
“I am so happy seeing my kids enjoying this day. It is an important day of the year and I prepare for it carefully. We mothers also enjoy this day, wear our traditional attire and get excited to see each other”.
Her words reflected the sentiment shared by many families who see Qaranqasho as a bridge connecting their children to their cultural roots.
As the evening came to an end, it was clear that distance from Oman had not dimmed the glow of Qaranqasho. The tradition lived on — celebrated, cherished and lovingly passed down to the next generation. Through days of preparation, glowing lights, shared dishes and the joyful excitement of children, Omanis in Brisbane created a memorable cultural moment that reaffirmed their connection to their heritage and strengthened bonds across cultures.