Ramadan, the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar, is a time of increased worship, reflection, and community engagement for Muslims worldwide. The Muslim Family Center is excited to announce a diverse and enriching schedule of events and programs for Ramadan 2025, designed to cater to families and individuals of all ages. This year’s Ramadan program is packed with opportunities for spiritual growth, community connection, and family fun.
Taraweeh Prayers and Quran Recitation
Continuing a cherished tradition, the Muslim Family Center (MFC) will host nightly Taraweeh prayers throughout Ramadan. These special prayers, performed after Isha (night prayer), are a hallmark of Ramadan evenings. This year, MFC is pleased to confirm that 20 Rakats of Taraweeh will be prayed at the Owen Brown Interfaith Center (OBIC), allowing for the completion of the entire Quran recitation over the month. Imam Sami Zaharna will lead the Isha and Witr prayers, while a group of esteemed Huffaz (those who have memorized the Quran), including Hafiz Huzaifa Zia, Mohammad Abdul Motagaly, and Shaheer Imam, will lead the beautiful and moving Taraweeh prayers.
To ensure a welcoming environment for families, a nightly children’s program will be available, making it easier for parents to participate in the Taraweeh prayers with peace of mind. The Taraweeh program is designed to be considerate of families, with each session expected to last between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours, Insha’Allah (God willing).
For those wishing to plan their Ramadan evenings, the Taraweeh schedule is readily accessible here.
Volunteer opportunities are available for those who want to contribute to the smooth running of the Taraweeh program and other Ramadan activities.
Volunteers assisting with Taraweeh prayers at the Muslim Family Center Ramadan program
Engaging Youth Programs: Little Lanterns and Qiyam-ul Layl
Recognizing the unique needs and enthusiasm of younger members of the community, the Muslim Family Center has developed special youth-centric programs for Ramadan.
Little Lanterns Program for Young Children
The “Little Lanterns” program is thoughtfully designed for young children who are not yet fasting but are eager to participate in the Ramadan spirit. This program aims to instill the love of Ramadan in children by engaging them in age-appropriate activities, captivating story times, creative crafts, and much more. It’s a fantastic way to get young children excited about their faith and motivate them to learn more about Islam in a fun and engaging environment. Spaces are limited for the Little Lanterns program, and registration is required and will be opening soon. Parents are encouraged to register early to secure a spot for their children.
Register for the Little Lanterns program to ensure your child enjoys a memorable and spiritually enriching Ramadan experience.
Volunteer opportunities are also available to help make the Little Lanterns program a success.
Children participating in activities during the Little Lanterns Ramadan program at the Muslim Family Center
Youth Qiyam-ul Layl: Nights of Prayer and Fellowship
For older youth, aged 11-19, the Muslim Family Center is once again organizing the popular Youth Qiyam-ul Layl events. These overnight events for boys and girls separately provide a unique opportunity for young Muslims to strengthen their faith and build lasting friendships in a spiritually uplifting environment. Participants will engage in icebreaker activities, youth-led discussions on relevant Islamic topics, night prayers (Qiyam), and enjoy games, snacks, and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal).
Girls Qiyam: March 7
Boys Qiyam: March 8
Both Qiyam events take place from 11:30 PM to Fajr prayer at the Owen Brown Interfaith Center. A fee of $30 applies, with free admission for MFC community sustainers.
Register for Girls Qiyam and Register for Boys Qiyam to ensure your teens benefit from these enriching overnight experiences.
Volunteer opportunities are available to support the Youth Qiyam programs.
Youth participating in Qiyam-ul Layl program at the Muslim Family Center, engaging in prayer and community bonding
Community Iftars: Breaking Fast Together
Iftar, the meal to break the fast at sunset, is a central part of Ramadan. The Muslim Family Center is committed to fostering community spirit by hosting a variety of Iftar programs throughout Ramadan 2025. MFC aims to provide over 2500 Iftar meals this Ramadan, with a focus on supporting local restaurants and refugee caterers.
Community and Specialized Iftars
MFC will host several community Iftars at OBIC, including a general Community Iftar (March 2), a Converts Iftar (March 2), and a High School MSA Iftar (March 14). These events offer a wonderful opportunity for Muslims from all walks of life to come together, break their fast, and strengthen community bonds.
Pick-Up and Drive-Thru Iftars
For added convenience, MFC will also organize Pick-Up Iftars on March 9 (Halal Cousins) and March 23 (Zaman Grill), and Drive-Thru Iftars from March 24-28. Pick-up Iftars allow each family to receive up to four meals on a first-come, first-served basis, providing a great option for families to enjoy a prepared Iftar at home. Drive-Thru Iftars offer another easy way to receive meals while adhering to social distancing and busy schedules.
Donate to the Iftar & Suhoor Fund to help make these vital community Iftar programs possible. Your generous contributions not only provide meals for those fasting but also support local businesses and refugee caterers. You can also Sponsor specific iftars today.
Volunteer opportunities are available to help with the distribution and organization of all Iftar programs.
A community gathering for Iftar at the Muslim Family Center, showcasing unity and togetherness during Ramadan
Ramadan Fundraising Dinner
The Muslim Family Center is hosting a Ramadan Fundraiser on March 16 to support its growing community and the expansion of its programs and services. This crucial event will feature a special guest, Dr. Altaf Hussain, and aims to raise funds to continue nurturing spiritual excellence within families through purposeful and inclusive programs. Your support is vital to enable MFC to continue providing a welcoming and uplifting environment for the community.
The Ramadan Fundraiser will be held at the BWI Marriott – 1743 W. Nursery Rd., Linthicum Heights, starting at 6 PM. Everyone is welcome to attend this important event.
Buy Tickets Here to the Ramadan Fundraiser and contribute to the growth and sustainability of the Muslim Family Center.
Volunteer to assist with the Ramadan Fundraiser and make it a successful event.
Promotional image for the Muslim Family Center Ramadan Fundraiser, highlighting the importance of community support
Additional Ramadan Programs and Events
Beyond the mainstays, the Muslim Family Center is offering a variety of other programs and events to enrich the Ramadan experience.
Tahajjud Prayers in the Last Ten Nights
During the last ten nights of Ramadan, MFC will host Tahajjud prayers at the MFC Musallah. These voluntary night prayers, highly encouraged during Ramadan, will be led by Imam Sami Zaharna. Suhoor will be provided following the prayers. Tahajjud prayers will be held from March 21 to March 29, from 4 AM to Fajr prayer. Everyone is welcome to participate. Itikaf (spiritual retreat) registration is also available for those interested.
Donate to the Suhoor Fund to support the provision of Suhoor during Tahajjud nights.
Volunteer to assist with Tahajjud and Suhoor arrangements.
Image promoting Tahajjud prayers during the last ten nights of Ramadan at the Muslim Family Center
Jummah Prayers at OBIC
Jummah prayers (Friday congregational prayers) will be held at the Owen Brown Interfaith Center (OBIC). Two Khutbahs (sermons) will be delivered: the 1st Khutbah at 1:30 PM by Ust. Yousef Seyal and the 2nd Khutbah at 2:30 PM by Br. Mobeen Vaid.
Announcement for Jummah prayers at Owen Brown Interfaith Center hosted by Muslim Family Center
Salah Stroll & Pick-Up Iftar
On March 9 & 23, join MFC families for a light stroll before Iftar at Lake Elkhorn Park. This is a great opportunity to connect with the community and enjoy the outdoors before breaking the fast. Family strollers will receive priority for MFC Iftar pick-ups on these dates. The stroll takes place from 1:30 PM to 4 PM, meeting at Owen Brown Interfaith Center parking lot.
Image promoting Salah Stroll event for families at the Muslim Family Center during Ramadan
Ramadan Checklist & Paradise Power-Up Program
The Ramadan Checklist is back by popular demand, integrated with the new Paradise Power-Up Program. This rewards program encourages youth to perform good deeds throughout Ramadan, earn points, and claim prizes. Download your checklists here and find out more about the Paradise Power-Up Program.
Paradise Power-Up Registration is available for children and youth to participate in this engaging program.
Volunteer to help with the Paradise Power-Up program and reward distribution.
Ramadan Checklist graphic for the Paradise Power-Up program at the Muslim Family Center
Islamic Kahoot for Kids & Youth
Join Islamic Kahoot sessions every Tuesday at 6:30 PM for kids and youth. These fun and interactive online quizzes cover topics like Ramadan, Prophets’ Wives, Quran, Battles, and Companions. Winners receive Paradise Power-Up Points! Click here to join the fun!
Promotion for Islamic Kahoot online quiz program for kids and youth by the Muslim Family Center
Moon sighting and Community Iftar
Participate in the Sunnah of moon sighting to mark the end of Ramadan on March 29 at 5:45 pm (Location TBD). Iftar will be provided at the moon sighting location. Fee is $10 per iftar (free for MFC Community Sustainers). Registration link coming soon.
Volunteer to help with the moon sighting event and community iftar.
Community Clean-up
Join the MFC Community Clean-up on March 14th after the 2nd Jummah prayer. Meet at OBIC Parking Lot to help clean around Lake Elkhorn and Owen Brown. Bring gloves and a trash bag; trash grabbers will be provided. The group collecting the most trash (kids vs adults) will win Paradise Power Up Points.
Eid Prayer
Eid al-Fitr prayer, marking the end of Ramadan, will be held on March 30th at Guilford Park HS (Time TBD). Details will be announced closer to the date.
Eid Mubarak greeting image for Eid al-Fitr prayer by Muslim Family Center
Suhoor at Busboys and Poets
Join MFC for Suhoor at Busboys and Poets on March 2 from 1 AM to 5 AM at 6251 Mango Tree Rd, Columbia, MD 21044. All chicken is HALAL.
Promotion for Suhoor event at Busboys and Poets by Muslim Family Center
Conclusion
The Muslim Family Center’s Ramadan 2025 program offers a comprehensive and engaging array of activities for individuals and families seeking to maximize their spiritual benefits and community connections during this blessed month. From Taraweeh prayers and community Iftars to youth programs and special events, there is something for everyone at the Muslim Family Center. We encourage you to participate, volunteer, and support these programs to make Ramadan 2025 a truly memorable and rewarding experience for all. Visit the Muslim Family Center website for the most up-to-date information, registration links, and further details on all Ramadan programs.
May Allah bless you and your family with a wonderful Ramadan full of barakah and success, Ameen!
Back to the top
