The ninth month of the Islamic calendar is called Ramadan.  Ramadan is a Muslim holiday in which people of the Islamic faith refrain from eating, drinking, and sexual relations from dawn until sunset.  This Islamic month of fasting is intended to teach Muslims about patience, spirituality, and humility.  Muslims take this time to fast for the sake of their god “Allah” and increase their prayer time.  During Ramadan, Muslims as for forgiveness for past sins, pray for spiritual guidance, and try to purify themselves through good works.  Muslims believe Ramadan to be a month in which they receive revelations from God.  This follows the first verses in the Koran in which Islamic prophet; Muhammad received his calling from Allah.
Fasting is an important part of Ramadan.  The observance of fasting generally begins when a Muslim reaches puberty as long as they are healthy, sane and have no disabilities or illnesses.  Older Muslims, chronically ill, and mentally ill are not required to participate in fasting.  However, they must participate in feeding the poor in place of fasting.  pregnant women and nursing mothers are also exempt from fasting if they think it will be harmful to their nursing or unborn child.  Other reasons for not fasting may include women who are menstruating and people who are traveling.  Some Islamic scholars believe that missed fasting days are to be made up.  Many children are not required to fast, but often choose to participate in fasting rituals.
Along with fasting, Muslims are encouraged to read the entire Koran during Ramadan.  There are special prayers called Tarawih which include verses memorized from the Koran.  Islamic mosques hold nightly prayer meetings in which an entire section of the Koran is recited.  By attending nightly prayer sessions, the entire Koran would be completed at the end of the month.
In many Muslim cultures, the followers will gather at sunset for a fast breaking meal known as Iftar.  The meal starts with the traditional eating of a date because it is believed that the Prophet Muhammad did.  After the date is eaten, prayers are offered to thank Allah followed by a meal.  The meal generally consists of fruits and vegetables along with traditional Middle Eastern foods.  Iftar is a time of gathering with other Muslims for fellowship and prayer.  Many Islamic followers stay up late and into the early morning hours eating, praying, and spending time with their family and friends.  The following day, the fasting ritual starts again.
Ramadan is a time when Muslims focus on spiritual forgiveness through fasting and prayer.  They also use this time for charity, kindness, and helping others.  Muslims prepare special foods and buy gifts for their family and friends.  Giving clothes, shoes, and other items to those in need is an important part of Ramadan.  Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, and sexual relations from dawn to sunset.  Once the sun has gone down, they spend the time eating, praying, and socializing with friends and family.  These celebrations can last until the early morning hours when the fasting begins again.