Rabat – The Muslim community in the US is expected to begin observing the holy month of Ramadan on March 1.
The Fiqh Council of North America said the crescent moon to be visible on the evening of February 28, which would confirm March 1 as the start of Ramadan this year.
The council also predicts Taraweeh, the extra prayers performed every night during the holy month, to begin on February 28.
Taraweeh prayers are performed after Isha prayers a part of the religious rituals of the holy month.
Several countries around the world are expected to celebrate Ramadan on March 29, including Saudi Arabia, according to astronomy calculations.
This year’s holy month comes as the Muslim community in the US continues to grow significantly, according to estimates from Pew Research.
The leading think tank recently estimated at 3.45 million people of all ages, including 2.15 million adults, the number of Muslims in the US.
“The U.S. Muslim community is made up heavily of immigrants and the children of immigrants from around the world,” Pew said, noting that Muslim Americans are considerably younger than the overall US population.
During the holy month, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset. Sexual activities, drinking, and chewing gums are also prohibited.
Muslim communities in the US usually gather during iftar celebrations organized by one of the community members, or by groups. Mosques also organize similar feasts.
In addition, the holy month is notably marked by the exchange of visits between friends and families to share Iftar.
Muslims fast for 29 to 30 days depending on the crescent moon sighting that determines the beginning and the end of Ramadan.
