September/October - Time for Festivals

Back home I know that now starts the all the fall carnivals and such, like the Scarecrow Festival in Chappel Hill, various church bazaars, etc. Well, it is Festival Time here in Singapore too. However these festivals are very deeply rooted in religion, faith and nationalities. Not knowing really what they were about I thought I would do a little research on the internet and share with you as well. The first one I looked up is called Hari Raya. Across the street from the office on Beach Rd. they have been constructing a huge tent and stage area for this fesitval. This isn't just an oridnary tent. It has metal truss-work and arches. It is about a football field in length. Then the stage setup was just as elaborate. The last few days you could hear the music and if you looked out the window you could see people rehearsing dances and their songs. This is what one website says about the celebration: Hari Raya Puasa or Hari Raya Aidilfitri, is one of the most significant celebrations for Muslims. It marks the culmination of Ramadan, a month-long fasting period and a time for abstinence, reflection and worship. This year, the streets of Kampong Gelam and Geylang Serai will be lit from 22 September to 31 October. A great time to experience and be immersed in the essence of Malay culture, visitors are in for a treat with the colourful festive bazaars and numerous food stalls offering traditional handicraft, Malay fare and invigorating music and performances. I also found that the term Hari Raya literally means the "day of celebration". During Ramadan Muslims may not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. When Ramadan is over, Muslims celebrate with feasts and gifts. In May, Muslims celebrate Hari Raya Haji, which marks the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. So know I know...and so do you too!