In 2026, I anticipate Ramadan to begin on Tuesday, February 17th and end on Wednesday, March 18th. Eid al Fitr, a major Islamic celebratory event indicating the end of Ramadan, will be Thursday/Friday March 19th-20th (Source: The Fiqh Council of North America). The holy month of Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Ramadan involves obligatory fasting for Muslims who are capable, from sunrise until sunset, for 29 or 30 consecutive days. 

I’m asking that individuals, departments, and organizations consider hosting an evening meal one night during the holy month of Ramadan. Hosting a dinner would mean providing food for approximately 20 students, being physically present for the meal, and celebrating with observant students. Religious & Spiritual Life can help to provide funding for departments or groups with financial constraints.

When?
Dates: 
Friday, February 20th at 6:15pm
Monday, February 23rd at 6:15pm
Friday, February 27th at 6:30pm
Monday, March 2nd at 6:30pm
Friday, March 5th at 6:30pm
Monday, March 9th at 7:45pm
Friday, March 13th at 7:45pm
Monday, March 16th at 7:45pm

What?

Hosting means providing a meal for 20 people. Paper plates, silverware, napkins, and juice boxes will be provided. Hosts are responsible for bringing the food and cleaning up the space after the meal (but please enlist the students to help do this.) Religious & Spiritual Life has funds to cover all or some of the costs of the meals– just let us know what you need.

Can I cook?

You can certainly prepare the meal yourself!  Please remember that each meal should be Halal. This means no pork products or alcohol may be used in the preparation of any aspect of the meal (including vanilla extract). Dairy and meat products must be certified Halal. You can find a Halal grocer just off campus (International Gourmet Pantry), but you can also find Halal foods at Aldi, Hardings, and several other local markets. Call Chaplain Liz Candido anytime to talk through specifics.

I don’t cook!

Kalamazoo offers some great catering options:  Shawarma King, Cumin Indian, Middle Eastern Appetite, Rasa Ria, Saffron, Bab El Salam, Chicago Munchies Fried Chicken (When ordering, please note that some restaurants have a limited Halal menu while others are completely Halal. Clarify when you order.)

What should I order?

What do you enjoy eating? Consider something your enjoy or talk to Chaplain Liz Candido. She can help you plan a cost effective, delicious menu.

Can I collaborate with someone else to host?

Yes!  We want to bring together members of our community including family and friends to join in this celebration. Please feel free to bring children, family and non-Muslim students. Perhaps you want to encourage departmental student advisers to attend or majors in your discipline. Perhaps one or two departments might co-host a dinner.

How do I sign Up?

Email: ecandido@kzoo.edu or Phone: 7361 or use the form below
Please let Chaplain Liz Candido know which date or dates you are willing to host!