Celebrating Ramadan

 

 I am excited to share a couple card and décor ideas to celebrate upcoming Muslim celebrations. 

Ramadan begins on April 12. This is determined by the Islamic lunar calendar. It ends approximately May 11 this year; the ending is called on the crescent moon's sighting,  which can vary in different countries. This smiling moon marks the end of a very special month of prayer, fasting, and charity, pillars of the Islamic faith. Ramadan is meant to be challenging; fasting allows Muslims to practice self-control, helps them with their spiritual devotion, and develops a kinship with Muslims worldwide. Families wake early to share a meal, sohour, before sunrise and after sunset, break the fast with a meal called iftar. Small children don't fast. To help them connect and keep them interested in this special month, you could help parents with crafting ideas to add to the daily activities many families do. Families can use a Ramadan calendar to mark the days. 

Much like our recent advent calendar kit, they can be decorated and hold small treats. I found several ideas online that could be made and decorated with our paper or envelopes and could include printables, listing small activities or good deeds. These calendars mark the days and also countdown to the Blessed Feast or Festival of Breaking Fast, called Eid al-Fitr.

 Eid al-Fitr is a big celebration marking the end of Ramadan, starting at sundown on May 12 and ending at sundown on May 13. The Festivals traditionally are large community events, welcoming everyone to celebrate, not just Islamics. The more, the merrier to enjoy the reward of the hard work of Ramadan. There is music, games, food and plenty of sweets! Eid Mubarak is a popular expression to congratulate each other for celebrating the holy month. This is a good greeting for cards to use for banners and other décor. Gifts are given, often money and gift cards. Gift boxes of chocolates, too. Ideas for dressing up gift card holders, small boxes, and money envelopes would be helpful for your customers. Help celebrate this month of Blessing and prepare for the festivities of Eid al-Fitr. 

smiles, Laurie