GUYANA is gearing up for its second National Ramadan Village, scheduled to be launched on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., with the event officially opening to the public on March 1.

Building on the success of the inaugural event in 2024, this year’s Ramadan Village promises to deliver an immersive cultural and religious experience, inviting attendees to engage in the practices, teachings, and traditions of Ramadan within a uniquely designed space.

During a press conference held on Wednesday, representatives from the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), the Guyana Islamic Trust (GIT), and the Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana (MYO) outlined the exciting plans for the upcoming event.

The initiative, conceived by President Irfaan Ali, will again take place on the lawns of the MYO on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown, and will feature a range of activities designed to foster spiritual reflection and community engagement.

Last year, the event attracted approximately 20,000 visitors, with 20 booths showcasing various aspects of Ramadan.

This year, organisers anticipate even greater participation, increasing the number of booths to 25 to accommodate the growing interest. Attendees can look forward to enjoying Iftar and dinner, with diverse cuisine booths offering local and international dishes that celebrate the month of fasting.

In an effort to promote diaspora involvement, the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has introduced a special Islamic Heritage Tour titled “Discovering Islamic Culture and Religion.” This initiative will provide an opportunity for visitors, including those from overseas, to immerse themselves in the rich teachings, practices, and history of Islam in Guyana.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a significant time for Muslims worldwide, marked by fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. As one of the Five Pillars of Islam, Ramadan lasts between 29 to 30 days, determined by the sighting of the crescent moon. The National Ramadan Village aims to create a unique environment where families, friends, and visitors can engage in a meaningful Ramadan experience, operating Fridays to Sundays from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. throughout the holy month.

The village will also observe the highly significant Laylat-ul-Qadr, or Night of Power, traditionally celebrated on the 27th night of Ramadan. Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in special prayers and religious discussions during this sacred time.

In addition to spiritual activities, the village will feature educational presentations by Islamic scholars, covering topics such as the role of women in Islam, youth empowerment and the virtues of Ramadan. These discussions aim to extend the teachings of Islam beyond the mosques, making them accessible to a broader audience. The Maghrib and Isha Salat (evening and night prayers), along with Taraweeh prayers, will be led by respected Imams.

With its Islamic-themed design, the village is set to offer a stunning visual experience, attracting visitors from diverse backgrounds. Alongside prayers and spiritual activities, booths will display Islamic teachings, featuring literature, traditional garments and religious artifacts. Attendees can also indulge in a variety of cuisines, including sweetmeats and traditional dishes from various cultures. Following the overwhelming response to last year’s booths, organisers are optimistic about even higher engagement in 2025.

The National Ramadan Village aspires to provide an inclusive space where individuals from all backgrounds can observe, learn, and share in the spirit of Ramadan, fostering unity and strengthening interfaith connections in the process. With a commitment to enhancing community engagement and cultural appreciation, this year’s event promises to be a significant celebration of faith and tradition.