GIRARD - The Islamic Society of Greater Youngstown hosted its inaugural Ramadan bazaar Sunday afternoon where vendors sold food, clothing, decor, jewelry, and more.

Organizer Susan Atway Esmail says the event was a great opportunity to bring people together to share in their culture and faith.

"There's actually a lot of Muslims in our community, different cultures, different ethnicities," she said.

Ramadan is the ninth, and holiest, month of the Islamic calendar.

This year, it begins in mid-February at sundown and lasts 29-30 days according to Muslim Aid.

The Islamic calendar follows the phases of the moon and lasts 354 days, split into 12 months, according to International Networks Group.

"It's a month long of prayer, of charity, of fasting, and it's basically about community," she said.

Esmail adds that after the 30 days, Muslim families come together to break fast with lavish meals and gifts.

"The bazaar is kind of bringing all of that together, so we're getting ready to buy gifts, getting ready to have our food catered," she said.

Suhad Hadi, president of the Arab American Community Center of Youngstown, says the event is also a way for businesses to showcase their products.

"This event is an opportunity for them because they can showcase themselves beyond their normal business season," she said.

Hadi adds that she is impressed with the turnout for the event.

"We're so happy the community embraced this whole event, and I don't think we could've asked for a better turnout," she said.