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Newsroom > Ramadan is Coming
Sunday February 16th, 2025
Ramadan is coming!
Ramadan Mubarak. Learn about what this month is all about, why it's so important for countless students at North Trail, and how you can celebrate.
AUTHOR
Asian Cultural Club Team
ALT: Eid Mubarak
With Ramadan approaching, we're wishing you a a peaceful and blessed Ramadan! May this month bring you joy, reflection, and togetherness. If you celebrate- Eid Mubarak and may your festivities be filled with love, gratitude, and cherished moments with family and friends.
What is Ramadan and why is it celebrated?
In Islam, Ramadan is the ninth month of the calendar and a sacred time for fasting. The crescent moon's arrival marks the start and finish of it. Ramadan starts 10–12 days earlier every year because the Muslim calendar year is shorter than the Gregorian calendar year. This allows it to fall in every season over a 33-year cycle. One of the holiest months for Muslims is Ramadan, which falls in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The Holy Qur'an is said to have been sent down from heaven during this month "as a guidance for men and women, a declaration of direction, and a means of salvation."
Source: Britannica| Ramadan
How is Ramadan celebrated?
Muslims keep a rigorous fast from sunrise to sunset during this month. During the day, they are not permitted to eat or drink anything, including water. In addition to being a kind of spiritual discipline and a way to develop empathy for others who are less fortunate, fasting is a private act of worship that draws one closer to God.
Throughout the day, a meal is eaten before sunrise to sustain energy for the day. This is known as Suhoor.
The evening meal to break the fast, traditionally starting with dates and water. This is called "Iftar".
Homes, streets, and mosques are decorated, especially in Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures.
Each culture has special dishes for Iftar and Suhoor (e.g., samosas, qatayef, dates, and kebabs).
The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr. During this time, families gather to celebrate with food, prayers, gifts/money, and others.
Muslims fast because it is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, a core religious obligation. It teaches self-discipline, patience, and empathy for those who are less fortunate. (Quran 2:183)
Source: Brandeis University | Ramadan | Resources | Center for Spiritual Life
How to Celebrate
If you want to learn more about Ramadan, you can attend Taraweeh Prayers, participate in education programs, or attend the various community events offered across Calgary.
Many mosques in Calgary, such as the Akram Jomaa Islamic Centre, host nightly Taraweeh prayers that you can pariticpate in. (Source | Akram Jomaa)
Ramadan Festival 2025: Organized by the Canadian Indonesian Social Club, this festival on February 22, 2025, at 6021 Madigan Dr NE, celebrates culture, food, and community. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the spirit of Ramadan with traditional halal dishes, music, and activities for all ages. (Source | eventbrite)
Check out the Annual Community Iftar Night, being held HERE at North Trail High School on March 6th from 5:00-8:00pm. This is an opportunity for students to come together to celebrate the beginning of Ramadan, fundraise, and simply come together. (Source | North Trail Muslims)