A Ramadan for Everyone: 10 Ways to Share the Joy of Ramadan with Non-Muslims

With Ramadan fast approaching, it is time to prepare ourselves for this sacred month of spiritual rejuvenation and devotion to Allah. As we eagerly set goals for ourselves – whether it is waking up on time for Suhoor (early meal before dawn), reading more Quran, attending taraweeeh night prayers, sitting in remembrance of Allah, or striving to eliminate distractions and vices – it is important to remember that life does not pause during Ramadan. We still have our daily responsibilities and commitments, but with a renewed focus on our faith and a determination to make the most of this blessed time. 

Living as Muslims in the West means that while we abstain from food, drink, and everything else that Islamic fasting requires, others around us will continue business as usual. As we embark on this journey, let us not forget to extend the blessings of Ramadan to our non-Muslim neighbors, colleagues, friends, and family. Just as the spirit of the winter holidays embraces all during the cold season in the West, so should the beauty and blessings of Ramadan. Our families and children deserve a Ramadan that they can share with their friends, no matter what faith they practice.

Fasting is a religious tradition that is not foreign to people of other faiths. Allah says in the Quran: 

“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” 

(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183) 

For Muslims, Ramadan is a month of mercy and hope, in which we revive our hearts with extra worship and good deeds. Hospitality and generosity are integral parts of this global celebration and can be extended to our non-Muslim brethren in humanity. Ibn Abbas reported that Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, was the most generous of people and he was even more generous in Ramadan (Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim). His kindness extended to everyone, not only his loyal followers, but also non-Muslim neighbors. There are many things we can do to spread a message of compassion and hope to everyone, and to make the month enjoyable and memorable for our children. 

This Ramadan is of particular significance with conflicts happening throughout the Islamic world and the public witnessing the resilience of Muslims in awe. It is the perfect time to show everyone what it means to live a life of piety, God-consciousness, and simplicity, in solidarity with those who are suffering globally. Although the fast of Ramadan is not just about understanding poverty and hunger, acknowledging the less fortunate is an added benefit. The month of mercy offers lessons for all of humanity and an opportunity to turn to the Creator in repentance and start anew. The month of mercy offers lessons to remind us of our shared humanity and the importance of kindness, generosity, and empathy toward others. 

As we observe the fast and engage in acts of worship and charity we can reflect on the plight of the less fortunate and strive to make a positive difference in their lives. This Ramadan, we can not only deepen our own spiritual connection with Allah but also extend a hand of love and support to those in need, to embody the true essence of Ramadan and exemplify the values of compassion, mercy, and unity – all valuable lessons for our younger generation and non-Muslim friends.

Here are 10 ways that we can share the message of Ramadan far and wide.

1. Host an open Iftar (fast-breaking dinner).

Invite non-Muslim guests, such as your children's friends and their families or neighbors, to join you for iftar. This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce them to the traditions and customs of Ramadan while fostering bonds of friendship and understanding. Make the evening special and honor guests with your welcoming smile and sincerity. 

2. Invite converts and their families to break fast.

Many converts struggle throughout the month of Ramadan because they lack support and Muslim family to cheer them on in their acts of worship. Reach out to converts in your community and invite them to break fast with you, and most importantly, ask them to bring their non-Muslim relatives and friends along. While it is possible that their family is not open to learning about Islam from them, they could potentially lend an ear to a compassionate stranger. Delicious iftar meals can be a unifying factor that opens the door to dialogue. Make yourself available to answer questions but allow them to lead the conversation.

Some converts may not have Muslim family members nearby or they may be practicing Islam in secret. Your invitation can make them feel welcome and supported during Ramadan.

3. Decorate your home inside and out.

Decorate your house inside and outside to let your neighbors know that you are celebrating Ramadan. Let your child take the lead in choosing décor or making homemade decorations. Hanging lights or Ramadan-inspired adornments to the outside of the house can help spark conversations about Ramadan and create a festive atmosphere in your neighborhood. 

4. Storytime about Ramadan.

Offer to do a storytime about Ramadan in your child's school or local library. A presentation on Ramadan and other Islamic traditions can help educate non-Muslim children about the significance of the month and promote cultural awareness and understanding.

5. Ramadan decor in your workspace.

Ramadan decorations do not have to be limited to your home only. Ask your boss if you can put up Ramadan decorations in your office space. This can help create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for Muslim employees and educate non-Muslim colleagues about Ramadan. If you own your own business, decorating is a no-brainer. Go all out with Ramadan and Eid banners, crescent moons, and lanterns! Even big department stores are now offering Muslim holiday decorations that you can purchase and use. Whenever possible, be sure to support Muslim-owned businesses, as well.  

6. Make goodie bags for neighbors.

Before Ramadan begins, hand out goodie bags to your neighbors with dates and other Ramadan staples. This small gesture of kindness can help foster goodwill and strengthen community bonds, as well as raise awareness about other traditions in the neighborhood. Similarly, you can hand out goodie bags in anticipation of Eid to your neighbors, colleagues, and friends. They will feel included in the celebrations, and you will have done your part in showcasing the spirit of generosity and hospitality of Ramadan.

7. Create and distribute Ramadan greeting cards.

Have your children make Ramadan greeting cards to pass out to their friends and classmates, no matter what faith tradition they follow. Handing out these handmade cards will make them feel proud and help them teach their peers about Ramadan. Additionally, holiday gift-giving is a great way to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding.

8. Organize community events.

Organize community events, such as iftar dinners or charity drives, that are open to everyone. Open house events and fast-a-thons, in which non-Muslims partake in fasting for one day with their Muslim friends, can provide opportunities for non-Muslims to learn more about Ramadan and experience the spirit of community and solidarity that characterizes the month.

9. Volunteer.

Encourage your family to volunteer at local food banks, shelters, or community service projects during Ramadan. Fasting while engaging in these acts of goodness benefits both the one who is doing it and those who observe it. It is a great way to give back to the community and embody the values of compassion, generosity, and service.

10. Reach out to non-Muslim family and friends.

Sometimes making Ramadan special for everyone is as simple as making a phone call. What better way to honor our relationships than to reach out and offer a kind greeting? Calling those family and friends who are not Muslim, seeking their forgiveness for any shortcomings, and wishing them a happy day (week or month) goes a long way in cementing our bonds of friendship. You may even say, “Ramadan Mubarak!” or “Happy Ramadan!” in the same way that non-Muslims greet us with “Happy Holidays” during the Christmas season. Even if we do not celebrate the same days, a heartfelt greeting can warm our hearts. 

Allah's Messenger said:

"Whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah's rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven." 

(Bukhari)

Ramadan is a time of reflection, spiritual growth, and compassion for Muslims around the world. By sharing the joy of Ramadan with non-Muslims, we can promote understanding, foster connections, and build bridges of friendship and empathy across communities. Let us seize this opportunity to spread love, kindness, and blessings to everyone, regardless of faith, and make this Ramadan a truly meaningful and inclusive experience for all. 

May Allah help us reach the month of Ramadan, accept our worship, and forgive us our sins. Ameen. 

Wendy Díaz is a Puerto Rican Muslim writer, award-winning poet, translator, and mother of six (ages ranging from infant to teen). She is the co-founder of Hablamos Islam, a non-profit organization that produces educational resources about Islam in Spanish (hablamosislam.org). She has written, illustrated, and published over a dozen children’s books and currently lives with her family in Maryland. Follow Wendy Díaz on social media @authorwendydiaz and @hablamosislam.