The Muslim holy month of Ramadan is finally here. This holiday celebrates prophet Muhammad’s first revelation in 610 AD and falls on the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar. Ramadan starts on February 28th and ends on March 29th this year. The last day of Ramadan is called Eid al Fitr or “Festival of Breaking the Fast.” There are all kinds of events to celebrate this holy month in the Montclair area, as well as restaurants where locals can order food for Iftar (breaking of the day’s fast). Keep reading for more about Ramadan and how to celebrate in Montclair + beyond.

Giving Back

In addition to fasting and praying, another big part of Ramadan is charity. As one of the five pillars of Islam, giving away is a regular part of the religious practice carried out throughout the year. And during Ramadan, followers usually double down on their charity efforts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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ICNA Relief USA’s New Jersey chapter is located in Somerset and is a Muslim organization that provides “caring and compassionate service to victims of adversities and survivors of disasters,” per the website. Every year, ICNA Relief hosts a Ramadan food distribution event to donate food boxes to those in need. For 2024, the organization distributed 27,000 boxes. This year, individuals are encouraged to carry on this tradition of giving. Those looking to give back can sponsor a food box or donate $75 to support the making of a food box. See more information here.

Read More: Organizations + Non-Profits to Give Back to in Montclair

Breaking Fast

Of course, for many people who observe Ramadan, one important daily ritual is Iftar, or breaking of the day’s fast. It happens at the call to evening prayer at sundown, and people often start it with some dried dates, along with a few bites of other finger food. A full meal follows after the evening prayer. In some countries, Iftar takes the form of elaborate banquets shared with extended family, friends, or even the entire neighborhood, and the preparation may start two to three hours before the meal. Restaurants also prepare Iftar specials for those who prefer to eat out for the big meal. Mosques, where the evening prayers take place, often arrange daily free Iftar for those in need. In some large cities, mosques, cultural institutions, or NGOs also organize iftar parties that allow people of other religions to explore Muslim culture.

 

Restaurants to Celebrate

The Bosphorus | 226 Franklin Avenue B, Nutley

The Bosphorus has a variety of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes on its menu, as well as many halal options, including lamb chops, grilled chicken, and stuffed grape leaves. One of the most popular halal dishes at this restaurant is the Beyti Kebab, which comes with chopped lamb marinated in tomato sauce and yogurt.

Tastee Platters | 446 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Tastee Platters is a popular restaurant chain that serves up a diverse range of halal menu options, including falafel, chicken shawarma, salads, and wings. This eatery provides a delicious and convenient way for Muslims to break their fasts during Ramadan while also enjoying a diverse range of halal food options. Tastee Platters has a Montclair location right on Bloomfield Avenue.

See More: 2025 Blood Drive Dates for the Hoboken + Jersey City Area

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