This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Friday 28 February 2025, and will conclude on the evening of Sunday 30 March 2025, with the exact dates contingent upon the sighting of the moon.
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from food, liquids, and smoking. It is a month of reflection, generosity, and charity.
“ On behalf of Walsall Council, I would like to extend my warmest wishes to all our residents observing the holy month of Ramadan. May this sacred time bring you peace, reflection, and spiritual growth. Ramadan Mubarak to you and your families. “
The Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Anthony Harris
Walsall Council is dedicated to supporting its employees during Ramadan. The council offers designated spaces for staff who wish to engage in prayer or private reflection.
Additionally, an Eid Mubarak Community Day is scheduled for April 5, 2025, at the New Art Gallery Walsall. This event commemorates the end of Ramadan with Eid ul Fitr, one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar, which brings together families and communities. The program will feature nasheed (vocal music), artist-led workshops, and mehndi, offering an opportunity for community celebration.
During Ramadan, fasting is encouraged to strengthen discipline in faith and to dedicate more time to prayer and family. It also builds empathy for those who go without. Fasting is one of the 5 pillars of Islam.
There are exemptions to fasting for health reasons, young children, and older people. Sometimes, through necessity, Muslims are unable to fast. In such cases, they would pay a Fidya, a charity donation to provide those in need with a nutritious meal. Some Muslims may choose not to fast, which is a personal choice, and no one should have to justify their reasons for not fasting.
Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat (charity) during Ramadan, another of the five pillars. This encourages Muslims to give a proportion of their savings to someone in need, if they are in a position to do so. Fasting for the month also has several positive health benefits, allowing the body to repair and detox for the rest of the year. This is considered both a physical and spiritual detox.
During Ramadan, most Muslims also attend extra nightly prayers at their local masjids (mosques) and wake up early for the Suhoor (early morning meal). Initially, the fast timings are roughly from about 2am to 6pm. The final 10 days of Ramadan hold special significance, and some Muslims observe I’tikaf (ritual retreat) and extra prayers.
Walsall Council would like to wish all Walsall residents a blessed Ramadan.