Ramadan begins

[Theresa42]

Note that Ramadan has started in the Muslim world (Sept 13-Oct 12 this year).

I mention it because although Muslims fast during the day during Ramadan, in many countries there are nightly 'feasts' [Iftar] where (extended?) families get together to break their fast:

In Indonesia Iftar is called "buka" which means "to open". Markets sell various foods for Iftar, including the date palm which is popular as well Indonesian unique food and drink such as kolak. Most of them are only found easily in Ramadan. Maghrib time is marked by beduk, a traditional Indonesian drum. Traffic jams often occur leading up to Maghrib time. Sometimes people invite groups of orphans to eat with them. After Iftar people go to the mosque for Isha and Tarawih prayer which, in Indonesia, is often accompanied by a sermon.

http://www.when-is.com/ramadan-2007.asp

In Egypt, it all sounds very celebratory!:

After the first few days, people start to go out after "iftar". Hence, many gatherings between families, friends or colleagues take place for the main meal, and for socializing afterwards. since many people prefer to spend their time in the old fashioned atmosphere of cafes, many hotels now actively market their facilities for this festive occasion. Today, it has become a tradition for all 5-star hotels to erect a large tent, furnished in the old Arabian decoration, where people enjoy their time listening to old traditional songs and music. It all recalls memories of the old classical days. "Sheesha" or water-pipes are smoked almost continuously.

http://www.touregypt.net/featurestories/ramadan.htm

Just thinking -- it's a time of year when I'm guessing lots of poultry might be slaughtered for the evening meals -- and lots of people are getting together in large groups.