Ramadan, the Month of Fasting

Ramadan, the Month of Fasting

• Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is significant for over one billion Muslims worldwide.
• It commemorates the moment when Muhammad received the revelations of the Koran from God.
• Muslims fast daily from dawn until sunset, refraining from food and drink.
• The month emphasizes increased worship, charity, and community support.
• Ramadan concludes with “Eid ul-Fitr,” a festival lasting three days, marked by family gatherings and feasting.

The Chinese New Year

• Celebrated by the Chinese community globally, marking the start of the first month in the Chinese calendar.
• Usually occurs in February and lasts for fifteen days.
• Preparations include thoroughly cleaning homes to remove bad luck and decorating with red paper symbols for happiness, wealth, and longevity.
• Families gather for a festive meal on New Year's Eve, and firecrackers are set off to celebrate.
• Children greet parents with wishes for health and happiness, receiving red envelopes filled with money as gifts.
• It is customary to exchange fruits, sweets, and visit elderly relatives during the festivities.
• Traditional lion and dragon dances are performed, accompanied by firecrackers to ward off evil spirits.

Simon Bolivar's Birthday

• Simon Bolivar was born on July 24, 1783, in Caracas, Venezuela, and is known as "The Liberator".
• He played a pivotal role in Latin America, leading independence movements against Spanish rule in several countries including Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
• His birthday, celebrated on July 24th, is an official holiday in Venezuela and Ecuador, where schools and most businesses close.
• Celebrations include military parades and government ceremonies; however, malls remain open for shopping activities.