Paterson Hosts Annual Ramadan Iftar at City Hall

Hundreds gather for interfaith event celebrating diversity and community

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Paterson, New Jersey held its annual Ramadan Iftar celebration at City Hall, bringing together hundreds of residents from the city's diverse interfaith community. The event, hosted by Mayor Andre Sayegh, featured remarks from community leaders emphasizing the values of Ramadan such as patience, gratitude, charity, and compassion.

Why it matters

Paterson is home to the largest Muslim population in New Jersey, and the annual Iftar celebration at City Hall has become a hallmark of the city's observance of the holy month of Ramadan. The event fosters unity, diversity, and interfaith solidarity within the community.

The details

The Iftar event featured a traditional meal shared after sunset prayers, with community leaders, elected officials, and residents filling the council chambers. Remarks were given by Mayor Sayegh, Imam A. Quddoos Farra'd of Masjid Salahuddin, First Lady Farhanna Sayegh, Council President Dr. Lilisa Mimms, and Corporation Counsel Aymen Aboushi, all emphasizing the deeper meaning and values of Ramadan.

  • The annual Ramadan Iftar celebration took place on March 4, 2026.

The players

Andre Sayegh

The mayor of Paterson, New Jersey who hosted the annual Ramadan Iftar celebration at City Hall.

Imam A. Quddoos Farra'd

The imam of Masjid Salahuddin who gave remarks emphasizing unity and generosity during Ramadan.

Farhanna Sayegh

The First Lady of Paterson who reflected on the deeper meaning of fasting during Ramadan.

Dr. Lilisa Mimms

The Paterson City Council President who spoke about standing in solidarity with the Muslim community.

Aymen Aboushi

The Paterson Corporation Counsel who noted the diversity represented at the event.

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What they’re saying

“Tonight is more than a meal. Ramadan teaches us patience, gratitude, charity and compassion. It reminds us to care for our neighbors, to serve those in need, and to strengthen our faith.”

— Andre Sayegh, Mayor (TAPinto.net)

“The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said none of you truly believes until he wants for his brother what he wants for himself. Ramadan represents patience, discipline and serving Allah. We thank the mayor and the city for honoring this blessed month.”

— Imam A. Quddoos Farra'd, Imam of Masjid Salahuddin (TAPinto.net)

“The point is to feel a little discomfort. Transformation happens when we're uncomfortable, when we get out of our comfort zone. Ramadan builds gratitude for what we have and reminds us to be generous with our fellow human beings.”

— Farhanna Sayegh, First Lady (TAPinto.net)

“This is what Paterson is all about, coming together as one community. During this sacred month, we stand in solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters and celebrate the diversity that makes our city strong.”

— Dr. Lilisa Mimms, City Council President (TAPinto.net)

“If you look across this room, you'll see a cross-section of Paterson, a cross-section of New Jersey, a cross-section of the world. That is what makes us great.”

— Aymen Aboushi, Corporation Counsel (TAPinto.net)

The takeaway

Paterson's annual Ramadan Iftar celebration at City Hall exemplifies the city's diversity and commitment to interfaith unity, as community leaders and residents come together to honor the values of Ramadan and strengthen the bonds that unite them.