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Paramus Today
By the People, for the People
Bergen County Celebrates Ramadan with Grand Iftar and Crescent Lighting
Event hosted by county leaders and Eid Committee of New Jersey honors faith, compassion and peace
Published on Mar. 10, 2026
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Bergen County leaders, alongside the Eid Committee of New Jersey, held its annual Grand Iftar and Crescent Lighting event on Monday, March 9 at Bergen Community College. The celebration marked the Holy Month of Ramadan, recognized as the month when the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Elected officials, religious leaders and community members gathered to honor the values of faith, compassion and peace, with interfaith prayers for peace and a special nasheed performance.
Why it matters
The event highlights the diversity and inclusivity of Bergen County, where the Muslim community is recognized as a cornerstone. By hosting the Grand Iftar and Crescent Lighting, county leaders demonstrate their commitment to celebrating the religious and cultural traditions of all residents.
The details
The evening featured remarks from elected officials like New Jersey District 37 Assemblywoman Shama Haider, one of the first Muslim women elected to the state legislature. Reverend Mason Jenkins of The Valley Hospital gave interfaith prayers for peace, and the evening Maghrib prayer was led by Imam Sadiq Tahir of Minhaj-Ul-Quran in Hackensack. The event also included a special nasheed performance by the Little Stars of the Muslim Community of Dumont.
- The event took place on Monday, March 9, 2026.
The players
Rafael Marte
A Bergen County Commissioner who expressed gratitude for the Muslim community's contributions to the county.
Shama Haider
New Jersey District 37 Assemblywoman, one of the first Muslim women elected to the New Jersey state legislature.
Mason Jenkins
Reverend at The Valley Hospital who gave interfaith prayers for peace.
Sadiq Tahir
Imam at Minhaj-Ul-Quran in Hackensack who led the evening Maghrib prayer.
Eid Committee of New Jersey
Organized the Grand Iftar and Crescent Lighting event alongside Bergen County leaders.
What they’re saying
“Our Muslim community is a cornerstone of Bergen County, and we are grateful for all they contribute. We were proud to host them for this celebration of Ramadan as we broke bread together and commemorated this time of reflection, unity, and gratitude.”
— Rafael Marte, Bergen County Commissioner (tapinto.net)
The takeaway
The Grand Iftar and Crescent Lighting event in Bergen County demonstrates the region's commitment to celebrating the diversity and religious traditions of its Muslim community. By hosting this annual celebration, local leaders are fostering unity, understanding and appreciation for the important role the Muslim faith plays in the fabric of the county.
