Even though Islam only has two main festivals, there are several others that are minor. These festivals are celebrated only in certain places and by particular sects of Islam. These festivals are listed below.
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Milad-an-Nabi is the Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad. He was born on the morning of the 12 day in the month of Rabil al Awwal (the 3rd month). According to the Christian calander, this would be August 20, 570 AD. The Prophet died 63 years later on the same day. This day is celebrated with parties and other celebrations.
Lailatul Bara‘at is the night of deliverance or forgiveness. This occurs in the eighth month (Sha‘ban) of the Islamic calendar. On this night, Muslims ask God to forgive them for all the sins they may have committed during the year. This festival precedes Ramadan.
This night, the night of the ascent, is when the Prophet ascended to heaven. This festival occurs on the 27th day in the month of Rajab (the 7th month).
Muharram is the Islamic New Years Day. The first month of the Islamic calendar is also called Muharram. This festival is a 10 day celebration. The first 9 days are from the actual New Years Day to the 9th day of the new year. These days are called the First Muharram, the Second Muharram, the Third Muharram etc… The final day (10th Muharram), is called ‘Ashura. It is said that on this day, Prophet Moses saved the Israel people from the Pharoah. Also, the Prophet Noah set sail on his arc on this day. This day is considered to be the most special day of Muharram.
