By Okon Ekpenyong
Ramadan is an important month in the Islamic calendar, observed by millions of Muslims worldwide. It is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and community. This year, Columbus, Ohio, will host its first-ever suhoor festival on March 29 from 11 pm to 3 am, giving residents and visitors a chance to experience Ramadan’s traditions.
But what exactly is Ramadan, and what is suhoor? Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and the holiest month for Muslims. During this time, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other pleasures. Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal that is eaten before the start of the fast. It is meant to provide sustenance for the day and to prepare the body for the long hours of fasting.
The suhoor festival in Columbus will be at the International Mall on Morse Road, next to the Franklin County Board of Elections. The event will be an epic night of celebration, with various halal food vendors and Muslim-owned businesses showcasing their delicious and diverse offerings.
Attendees can expect to indulge in traditional dishes such as falafel, shawarma, biryani, and unique fusion foods and desserts.
The organizers of the Suhoor festival comply with various Muslim organizations in central Ohio and hope to bring people of all backgrounds together to experience the rich culture and traditions of Ramadan. They believe food has a special way of bringing people together and creating a sense of community. In addition to the food, there will also be live entertainment, including spoken word poetry and music, providing a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
The suhoor festival is not only a chance to experience the delicious flavors of halal food but also an opportunity to learn more about the Islamic faith and culture. The organizers have prioritized educating attendees about Ramadan and its significance,
as well as promoting unity and understanding among different communities.
In addition to the festivities, the International Mall will also be open during the suhoor festival, providing guests with the opportunity to shop and peruse a variety of merchandise from different vendors. And it includes clothing, accessories, shoes, and other perishable items. Guests can take a break from the celebrations to explore the offerings at the mall and potentially find unique items to commemorate the festival.
Support the New Americans magazine to continue to serve our community with precise news that affect the new American, immigrant and refugee community. https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=8LHFS78NRNJJY&source=url
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.