Ramadan Start in Trinidad and Tobago

Day and Observance: Ramadan in Trinidad and Tobago begins on the same day as it does internationally, following the lunar Islamic calendar. The exact start date varies each year, as it is determined by the sighting of the new moon. Muslims in Trinidad and Tobago, as elsewhere, fast from dawn to dusk during this holy month.

History: Islam was introduced to Trinidad and Tobago through the arrival of indentured laborers from South Asia in the 19th century. The practice of observing Ramadan has been maintained by their descendants and further enriched by subsequent Muslim immigrants.

Traditions: During Ramadan, Muslims in Trinidad and Tobago partake in traditional practices such as fasting (sawm), prayer (salah), reflection, and community gatherings. The fast begins at dawn (Fajr) with a pre-fast meal called suhoor and is broken at sunset (Maghrib) with iftar, often starting with dates followed by a communal meal.

• Suhoor: Families wake up early to eat together before the fast begins.
• Iftar: After sunset, families and friends often break their fast together either at home or at mosques.
• Taraweeh Prayers: Special nightly prayers are held where longer portions of the Quran are recited.

Community Engagement: Mosques play a central role during Ramadan, hosting iftar meals and providing space for Taraweeh prayers. Additionally, charitable activities increase during this month as Muslims seek to fulfill Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity).

Cultural Integration: In Trinidad and Tobago's multicultural society, non-Muslims are often aware of Ramadan practices. It is not uncommon for people of different faiths to acknowledge or participate in iftar meals as a sign of respect and community cohesion.

On this day specifically:

• The local Muslim community looks out for the moon sighting announcement that will mark the beginning of Ramadan.
• Individuals prepare mentally and spiritually for a month of fasting.
• Families may do last-minute shopping for food items needed for suhoor or iftar meals.
• Many also take time to set personal goals for spiritual growth during the upcoming month.