Ramadan is almost here, but how much do those of other faiths, or none, know about this important religious festival? Former primary school teacher Catherine Lynch of education resource experts PlanBee takes a closer look at why and how Muslims celebrate Ramadan and considers what the whole family can learn from its customs and rituals

A Pillar of Islam
Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It takes place during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and lasts 29 to 30 days. The Islamic calendar is based on the cycle of the moon so its dates change every year. This year, Ramadan will begin on the evening of Monday 12th April when the new moon first appears in the sky and end on Tuesday 11th May, the night of the waning crescent moon.

No food or drink
During Ramadan, Muslims don’t eat or during the hours of daylight. Children don’t usually fast until they are 14 years old. Some Muslims don’t have to fast, including, pregnant women, elderly people, those who are unwell and people travelling.

Muslims try to spend time with their family during Ramadan. They also try to help people in need, give up bad habits and devote time to prayer. Many Muslims try to read the whole of the Qur’an during Ramadan.

Which meals are eaten during Ramadan?
The meal Muslims have before the sun rises is called Suhoor, meaning ‘of the dawn’. Iftar, meaning ‘break of a fast’ is the evening meal eaten after sunset

What is Qadr Night?
Laylat al-Qadr is the night Muslims believe the Qur’an was sent down from Heaven to the world and revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Laylat al-Qadr is thought to have happened between the 23rd and 27th night of Ramadan.

What happens at the end of Ramadan?
The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a big celebration called ‘Eid ul-Fitr’. Muslims dress in their finest clothes, give gifts to children, spend time with their friends and family and give money to charity.

What are the Five Pillars of Islam?
The Five Pillars of Islam are acts that are important in Muslim life:

The first is Shahadah, the declaration that Allah is the only God.

The is Salat, the five prayers Muslims say every day

The third is Zakat, meaning to be charitable and give to those in need.

The fourth is Sawm, the month-long fast Muslims do during Ramadan.

The is Hajj, a pilgrimage to Mecca.

Easy Ramadan crafting
Make moon-sighting binoculars with your children

Get two toilet rolls and stick them together to make binoculars.
Decorate the toilet rolls to look like the night sky.
Attach string to the binoculars.