From this evening, many of our students and staff will be observing the holy month of Ramadan. But what is Ramadan and how is it celebrated? 

What is Ramadan? 

Ramadan is a holy month observed by Muslims to mark the month that the Qur'an (the Muslim holy book) was revealed to the Prophet Muhammed.  

When is it celebrated?  

Ramadan is always the ninth month in the Islamic Calendar. Since the Islamic Calendar is based on lunar cycles, it changes every year. This year Ramadan begins on Wednesday 22 March and will last until Friday 21 April. Fasting begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, usually one night after the new moon.  

How is Ramadan celebrated? 

Throughout the month, Muslims will fast during daylight hours meaning they will not eat or drink during the daytime. It is common to have just one meal before dawn (suhoor) and another just after sunset (iftar).  

Fasting is done as a sign of commitment to their faith and reminds many Muslims of the suffering of the poor. 

Ramadan is also a time for peace and reflection. Many Muslims will give up bad habits, gather together in prayer, and maybe even commit to reading the entire Qur’an.  

When does Ramadan end?  

After a month of fasting, the end of Ramadan is marked by the big festival Eid ul-Fitr (the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast). Eid celebrates the end of fasting, but also gives thanks for the strength needed to persevere throughout the month.  

During Eid, many mosques will hold special services where people dress up in their finest clothes, children may receive gifts, and many Muslims will donate to charity.  

Ramadan Mubarak to all our students and staff observing Ramadan and happy fasting!