The beginning of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims around the world began on March 1, 2025. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time filled with fasting, prayer, and community. The fast, observed from sunrise to sunset, is seen as a period for renewing faith, seeking forgiveness, and increasing self-discipline. During this time, Muslims everywhere come together to share in the observance of this sacred month.

Here are some of the ways Muslims in Fullerton celebrated and observed Ramadan this year:

Iftar Gatherings:

Iftars are dinners that mark the end of the fast, usually eaten together with friends, family and/or the greater community. Many local mosques and restaurants across Orange County hosted Ramadan events, inviting everyone to participate. Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen located at: 229 E Commonwealth Ave, Fullerton offered complimentary iftar options throughout Ramadan, these included; dates, nuts, rosewater and fruit, to cultivate a sense of community with this tradition. Similarly, local mosques hosted community iftars, such as the Islamic Institute of Orange County (IIOC) located at: 1220 N State College Blvd, Anaheim who directed their efforts towards organizing communal banquet iftars, with the latest one having been held at the Fullerton Club LLC.

Islamic Center of Fullerton (ICOF)

The Islamic Center of Fullerton (ICOF), formerly known as the Vietnamese Muslim Community, has now merged with the Fullerton Muslim Community Center (FMCC), also known as the Fullerton Masjid, as of 2024, located on West Valencia Drive. FMCC, originally established by a Cham refugee in 2004 now hosts an ethnically diverse group. Sr. Supiadah from the FMCC board summarized the board’s mission in, “fostering an environment of empowerment, solidarity, and inclusion for all, regardless of race, color, or religion.”

Maghrib prayer held at FMCC from FMCC Facebook Page

Interfaith Iftar held by Fullerton Muslim Community Center

In the spirit of community and giving, The Fullerton Muslim Community Center (FMCC) held an interfaith iftar on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. Hosted by Khalid and Munir, it was an open invitation to all to come and take part in the Ramadan Spirit.

631 S Brookhurst St Anaheim

Suhoor Fest:

Another event held in Orange County included Suhoor Fest, held in Anaheim from 11pm to 5am which took place on March 14. It was a hugely populated event bringing in thousands of muslims from all over the county to enjoy food from a wide variety of halal food vendors, browse clothes stalls and experience other cultural activities. More than just a late-night festival, Suhoor Fest served as a powerful reminder of the unity, diversity, and vibrancy of the Muslim communityin Orange County, offering a space for shared traditions and collective celebration during the holy month of Ramadan.

Participants in the 25th Annual Humanitarian Day held in Gladys Park on Skid Row. (Photo by Karim Saafir @karims123)

Humanitarian Day 2025:

Ramadan is also a time for giving and being charitable, as good deeds are believed to be multiplied during this month. Muslims fulfill Zakat (obligatory charity) and give Sadaqah (voluntary charity) throughout the year, with a stronger emphasis during this month. Relative to the core principles of Ramadan many muslims attended, The Humanitarian Day LA 2025 on March 16, 2025 in Gladys Park. An event focused on community service and support, aligning with the spirit of charity and compassion that is central to Ramadan.

Taraweeh Prayers and Mosque Gatherings:

Ramadan is not just about fasting; it’s also a time for increased spiritual reflection. Local mosques all over Orange County held Taraweeh prayers, a night prayer done after iftar, and community gatherings for suhoor- the pre-dawn meal before the fast. Mosques and community centers host various prayer services, community support programs, and spiritual events throughout the month.

These activities highlight how Muslims in Fullerton are embracing the sacred nature of Ramadan, focusing on communal unity, spiritual growth, and charity.