darkë

Darkë is the Albanian word for the evening meal, typically consumed at home in Albania and among Albanian-speaking communities. The term refers to a meal shared with family or guests and is central to everyday hospitality and social life.

Practices surrounding darkë vary by region and season; meals commonly feature bread, salads, vegetables, and a main dish such as meat or fish, often accompanied by dairy and fruit or dessert. In rural areas, the meal may be more elaborate on weekends or festive occasions, while urban households may have lighter, later dinners. Beverages such as water, coffee, or raki are commonly consumed, and social rituals around serving and hospitality are important aspects of the meal.

Linguistically, the etymology of darkë is not definitively established, but it is a native Albanian word used across dialects to refer to the evening meal. It is distinct from other Albanian terms for time of day, such as mbrëmje, which denotes the period of the evening rather than a specific meal.

In contemporary usage, darkë also denotes social dinners or hosted gatherings, including those organized by friends or communities. The term is widely used in Albania and in Albanian-speaking communities abroad, where dining customs may blend local influences with traditional practices. Darkë remains a common cultural concept tied to hospitality, family life, and social connection.