by Special note related to COVID-19: Even though Ramadan is still a month away, current measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus may still be in place in the UK and elsewhere. As such, many of the event ideas listed below won’t be possible to implement this year. Make sure to stay updated on the lates guidelines.
To help you with the latest COVID-19 guidelines and useful tips, we’ve put together a dedicated page with information relevant for event organisers.
Ramadan is an annual event observed by Muslims around the world. It lasts for around thirty days, during which Muslims fast between sunrise and sunset. The purpose of Ramadan is to focus on Islamic teachings, appreciate what you have, and give to the needy. After the period of fasting, Muslims celebrate Eid, which is a big event that involves feasting and entertainment.
Given the nature of Ramadan, it’s not a commercial enterprise like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Halloween, and Easter. Rather, it’s a great opportunity for event organisers to focus on the local community and invite them to participate in volunteering and charity events. We’ve rounded up ten great event ideas to inspire you for Ramadan.
Remember that Ramadan’s timing depends on the sighting of the moon, so make sure to check the calendar and plan well ahead of schedule. Without further ado, let’s look at a few Ramadan event ideas.
1. Fatoor dinner party
Iftar is when Muslims break their fast after the sun has set. It’s also known as “fatoor” and is a great opportunity to host a dinner party, which you can combine with entertainment such as live music or comedy. Find inspiration in these iftar dinner ideas and learn how to set the table for fatoor so it looks nice for when your guests arrive.
Next step: Make sure you read these do’s and don’ts of hosting iftar for your guests.
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2. Iftar cooking class
You could also host a fatoor cooking class instead of the actual iftar. That way, you’ll spread the knowledge of popular Islamic dishes for Ramadan. Teach your students how to make Arabic bread, homemade hummus, and maybe a samosa or two for good measure. You could also organise the class itself close to iftar, so that everyone can learn to cook a new meal they can then use to break their fast.
Next step: Find inspiration in these iftar cooking classes from Top Chef Cooking Studio in Dubai.
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3. Ramadan fundraising event
The purpose of Ramadan is twofold: appreciate what you have and give to those who don’t. That’s why it’s the perfect opportunity to organise a fundraising event. Decide on a goal for the fundraiser, such as Action Against Hunger’s drive to help the children of Yemen. (Remember that you can organise a free event with Billetto and use our platform to collect donations for your event.)
Next step: Use this Zakat calculator from Islamic Relief to calculate donations.
4. Ramadan volunteering event
Monetary donations can help those in need, but so can time and effort from those who are able to give. Host a volunteering event to help your local community. You can organise a group to feed homeless people or ask people to contribute with specific skills like healthcare and education. Read our guide on how to manage volunteers if this is your first time.
Next step: See how charities such as Muslim Hands organise volunteering events for inspiration.
5. Ramadan run
It’s very difficult to run a full-length marathon unless you’re an athlete. But it’s particularly difficult to do it when you’re not an athlete and you’re also fasting. That’s what Ramadan Run specialises in, so you could take a page out of their book and organise your own version of the event. Read our guide on how to organise a sports event to get off to a good start.
Next step: Learn how to organise a Ramadan run or walk for a good cause this year.
6. Henna workshop
Henna is the practice that originates in South Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East. You create beautiful designs with dye, and many do this during Ramadan. So why not organise a workshop where you teach students how to create their own henna designs?
Next step: Look at these stunning henna designs to find inspiration for your workshop.
7. Ramadan carnival
Last year, the Islamic Society of South Australia held the first-ever Ramadan Carnival. The organisation served delicious food and hosted lively entertainment to celebrate cultural diversity. You could organise a similar Ramadan Carnival in your local neighbourhood on a smaller scale.
Next step: Find inspiration in the annual London Mela carnival which involves many Muslims.
8. Ramadan Crescent moon hunt
If you’re looking for a family-friendly event idea, then look no further than the Crescent Moon Hunt. The premise is based on a potluck event where you invite the local community. You can then hide a crescent moon–shaped treat in the local area for the kids to find, just like an Easter Egg hunt.
Next step: Read about the do’s and don’ts of a potluck event before you organise your own.
9. Ramadan decorating party
As Eid approaches, it’s time to decorate for the big festivities. You can either organise a decorating party for the local community or host a crafts workshop where you teach students to create their own Eid decorations. Make sure you include a crescent moon in the mix.
Next step: Visit Pinterest to find a wealth of ideas for Eid decorations you can use for your event.
10. Celebrate Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr (or just “Eid” for short) is the end of Ramadan. It’s usually celebrated for more than one day and involves fairs with food and entertainment. The main point is just to celebrate, so feel free to improvise and organise your own celebration of Eid al-Fitr for your local community.
Next step: Learn how Eid Al-Fitr is celebrated around the world to find inspiration for your event.
Get ready for Ramadan
Hopefully, you now have more Ramadan event ideas than you can shake a stick at. Make sure you prepare in time for the Holy Month and stock up on all the necessary food items and craft supplies.
It’s also a good idea to activate the local community. Ask them to help out with the organisation of the event. After all, many hands make light work!