One of the most meaningful aspects of Ramadan is the nightly iftar, the breaking of the fast after sunset, and this year, Taqwa Mosque in Ottawa provided a beautiful setting for the community to come together and share that tradition.
On March 12, approximately 100 members of Ottawa's Muslim community gathered at Taqwa Mosque for an evening of reflection, food, and community connection. The event carried special significance with the presence of His Excellency Tariq Ali Faraj Al-Ansari, Ambassador of the State of Qatar, who joined the community to mark the occasion.
A Month of Community
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed by Muslims around the world as a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and charitable giving. The fast runs from dawn to sunset each day, and the breaking of the fast each evening, the iftar, is typically a communal and celebratory occasion.
In Ottawa, mosques and community organizations host iftar dinners throughout the month, creating opportunities for Muslims and non-Muslims alike to come together, learn about the tradition, and share a meal. Events like the one at Taqwa Mosque are a vital part of Ottawa's multicultural fabric.
An Evening of Generosity
The gathering at Taqwa Mosque on March 12 brought together roughly 100 community members for what sounds like a moving evening. The support of Qatar's ambassador added an international dimension to the local celebration, reflecting the global nature of Ramadan as a shared experience for Muslims everywhere.
Events like this are open windows into Ottawa's vibrant and diverse Muslim community, one of the largest and most active in Ontario outside of the Greater Toronto Area.
Getting Involved in Ramadan in Ottawa
If you're interested in experiencing Ramadan in Ottawa, many mosques and Muslim community organizations welcome guests to iftar dinners throughout the month. It's a genuine and generous tradition of hospitality that reflects the spirit of the season.
Ottawa's Muslim community includes tens of thousands of residents from across the world, and Ramadan is one of the best times to learn about this rich tradition and connect with neighbours you might not otherwise meet.
Ramadan 2026 continues through the end of March. There are still opportunities to attend community iftars in the capital if you're curious.
Source: Ottawa Life Magazine
