This day marks the beginning of the year for the Islamic calendar. The Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, its year is slightly shorter than the Gregorian calendar's solar year. Because of this, it is possible for the Islamic New Year to occur twice in one Gregorian calendar year.

The New Year is also the anniversary of the flight of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD. This flight is known as the Hegira.

Ashoora commemorates the martyrdom in 680 AD of Muhammed's grandson Hussein. His grave site in Kerbala, Iraq has become a popular pilgrimage site for Shi'ite Muslims. On this holiday, processions re-enacting Hussein's funeral are held. Plays depicting Hussein's life are performed. And special litanies are recited in mosques. This holiday is widely observed by Shi'ite Muslims, however some Suni Muslims may also celebrate this day.

Maulid an-Nabi is the birthday of the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh). He was born on this day in Mecca on 570 AD. He was a sherpard, and trader for the first part of his life. At the age of 42 he received a visit from the Angel Gabriel. After which, Muhammed (pbuh) under Devine guideance, wrote the Qur'an, founded Islam, and politically united the Arab tribes. His birthday is celebrated with fireworks and by gift giving.

The 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab, commemorates the ascension of the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) to heaven, where Allah instructed him on the five daily prayers required of every Muslim.

On this miraculous night, Mohammed (pbuh) was awakened by the Angel Gabriel. Led by Gabriel, Mohammed (pbuh) flew on the winged horse Burak from Mecca to Jerusalem. At the site of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, Mohammed prayed with Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and others. At the rock of the Temple Mount, Mohammed (pbuh) ascended into heaven.

This night is observed with special prayers. The minarets of Mosques are illuminated.

Islamic tradition holds that on this night, Allah reviews the actions of all, and decides everyone's fate for the upcoming year. Some observe this day as a festive occasion; fireworks and parties are common. Others spend it in prayer and reading the Qur'an. In India, Pakistan, and Persia it is traditional to say prayers for the dead on this day.

The month of RamaDHaan is the holiest season of the Islamic year. During RamaDHaan devout Muslims fast from food, drink, smoking, and sex from sunrise to sunset. Each evening after sunset, it is traditional to break the fast with a cup of water and a piece of fruit, after which a special holiday meal is served. During RamaDHaan, friends and family often gather at each others houses to partake in the evening holiday meal.

According to Islamic tradition, on this night in 610 the Angel Gabriele first appeared to the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh), and revealed the Qur'an to him. Only some Muslims observe this occassion, often they will gather at mosques, schools, or in homes and listen to lectures on Islam. Mosques do not hold special religious services on this day.

Lailat-al-Qadr is also known as the Night of Destiny, or the Night of Power. Like Nuzulul Qur'an, this holiday also commemorates the night in 610 AD when the Angel Gabriel first appeared to the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh), and revealed the Qur'an to him.

This holiday is observed most commonly on RamaDHaan 27, however it may be observed on any of the last 10 days of RamaDHaan. Reading the Qur'an and praying are traditional ways to observe this day. Some Muslims make a special effort to read the Qur'an on all of the last 10 days of RamaDHaan as a way of observing this anniversary.

Quds Day is observed on the last Friday in RamaDHaan. On this day, Muslims around the world pray for the city of Jerusalem, and demonstrate their support for the city's oppressed Muslims. Jerusalem, also known as al-Qud, is a holy city for Muslims, Jews, and Christians. The Quds Day observance was started in response to the recent strife in the holy city.

At the end of the RamaDHaan fast is a 3 day period of feasting called the Feast of Fast Breaking, or Id-al-Fitr (sometimes abreviated Eid). Customs on this day include reciting special Eid prayers, wearing new clothes, giving gifts, eating sweet foods (especially candy), and visiting relatives. In some towns carinvals are held.

In Turkey, this holiday is called Seker Bayrami, the Candy Festival. Childern are given candy on this day. It is called Hari Raya in Indonesia, Malaysa, and Thailand. In these countries it is customary to hold open houses on this day.

Waqf-el-Arafat or Day of Hajj commemorates the conclusion of Allah's revelations to the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) on Mount Arafat. Muslims on Hajj, attend special services on this day at Mount Arafat. Muslims not on Hajj observe this day by attending a local mosque.

Id-al'-Adha, or Feast of the Sacrifice, commemorates Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael at Allah's request. At the last minute, Allah stopped the sacrifice and allowed Abraham to sacrifice a ram instead. Abraham set an example for all Muslims in his obedience to Allah.