Muslims in The Gambia are joining other believers of the Islamic faith in observing Eid-al-fitr, locally known as Koriteh. The feast marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.
It's a time for families to get together too and a time to prepare the best food. Gambian fashion and entertainment businesswoman, Haddy Faye is currently in the USA and for the first time, she will be celebrating Koriteh away from the warm company of her family.
Enjoy our special Koriteh interview with her:
What’s On-Gambia: Koriteh is finally here, how far with your arrangements?Â
Haddy: Well, I'm right now in the U.S. Not much is going on but I’m looking forward to a good one inshallah, with friends and family. I know I'm going to miss out this year but here should be fun too.Â
Tell us about your favorite Koriteh memory?Â
My favorite was the one spent with my father who lives in Spain that was three years ago. We had a blast because the whole family was around. It was memorable marshallah.Â
What are the traditions in your family at Koriteh time?Â
Just like any other Gambian family, we get prepared, do the hair, shopping, clothes for my siblings and do a bit of house decorations (interior) and invite extended family members to the house.Â
Do you buy presents for your loved ones? If yes, what are the common things you buy?Â
(Laughs) Not really, but as we all know traditionally as Gambians we give out money “salibo" to friends, families and children.Â
What food would you recommend our readers to cook this Koriteh?Â
My favorites are "Findi with Domoda"and prolly grill in the evening.Â
What type of social events do you think are the most appropriate to attend during Koriteh?Â
I'll say friends and family gatherings.Â
Any favorite venues you would recommend to those planning a night out?Â
I don't know if there are any concerts in town but Aquarius and Crystal Lounge would be the place to be. No doubt!Â
As a fashionista and a fashion shop owner, can you offer our girls few tips on what to wear to Koriteh parties?Â
Here are few tips on choosing the right attire for your Koriteh parties.Â
A sparkling Top, with skinny jeans or leggings and heels go perfectly together. Finish it off with some dark metal jewelry for a little bit of a rocker edge. This look would be perfect for a night out with your favorite girlfriends – whether its dinner and drinks, dancing at a club, or just a cocktail party at your place, this look is cute and fun.Â
A faux satin dress or Body Con dress, paired with high-heeled pumps. I like sparkly jewelry so you can add earrings and a bracelet, but if earrings aren’t your thing, a simple bracelet is enough for this look. This look is perfect for a dinner date with that special guy.Â
If you’re heading out to a bar / night club with your boyfriend or just going to have dinner or a drink with the girls - here's cute and casual outfit that still has some sparkle. Black skinny jeans with a luxe tank and a bright cardigan for a pop of color. Also add gorgeous jeweled wedges or flats and some blingy jewelry to finish the look. Cute cute cute..Â
For us Women, the options are nearly unlimited. The prints, the patterns, the colors, the fabrics, and the styles that we can choose from are huge in number. However, choosing the right dress for your body type and your personality is what matters.Â
What are you planning to wear?Â
I have my fab African outfit ready to embrace the feast and anything else I'm wearing depends on the type of party I'll be going to. I want to look suitable for whatever event it is. One thing for sure is, I’m definitely going Glam and Chic.Â
Thank you for your time and wishing you a happy Koriteh.Â
Thanks to What's On-Gambia team. Eid Mubarak to my fellow Muslim brothers and sisters.
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