Ramadan lights return to Dearborn, home decor becomes widely available

Ramadan-themed decorations are now on display in Dearborn’s downtown districts, continuing a tradition city leaders say has expanded in recent years.

Ramadan, the month when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, is set to begin this week.

Illuminated crescent moons and stars mounted on light poles have been installed in the east and west downtown development authority districts, as well as the Warren business district, according to Dearborn city officials.

“Just putting up decorations is a great way to celebrate and enjoy the view. It creates a great vibe,” said Tahrik Alcodray, chairperson of the West Dearborn Downtown Development Authority. “We’ve got nothing but good feedback from the community.”

The displays are concentrated along several blocks in each district, where seasonal decorations are typically placed. During the winter holidays, the same light poles carry Christmas-themed decor before transitioning to Ramadan imagery once the Christmas season ends, the chairperson said.

Dearborn’s city administration and development authorities first began decorating for Ramadan about four years ago, Alcodray said. Earlier efforts involved leaving general holiday lighting up through the Muslim holy month, but the city has since shifted to giving each holiday its own theme.

“We think it is important to celebrate all faiths,” Alcodray said. “We feel it’s important to celebrate everybody.”

Ramadan’s local significance

Michigan is home to more than 241,000 Muslims, according to World Population Review — with concentrated communities in Dearborn, Hamtramck and Warren and dozens of mosques statewide.

More: Islamic holy month nears. When does Ramadan start?

Local shops lead the way as Ramadan decor expands

Independent stores in metro Detroit have offered Ramadan decorations for years, providing on-theme items often unavailable in national chains. As demand has grown, major retailers have begun offering Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr decor as well, reflecting broader recognition of Muslim consumers and holiday traditions.

• Local retailers:
  • Nice Price: Offers a wide range of Ramadan-themed table decor, lanterns, wall and door art, banners, kitchenware and more. Nice Price has locations in Dearborn, Detroit, Troy and Hamtramck.
  • Heights Kitchenware: Sells Ramadan prayer rugs, lights, table covers, various crescent decor, themed bowls and serving trays and other kitchen items. Located at 25865 Ford Road in Dearborn Heights.
  • Home & Beyond of Garden City: Offering 20% off all Ramadan merchandise while supplies last, including crescent moon decorations, kitchen and serving items, banners, lights and decor reading “Ramadan Kareem” in Arabic and English. Located at 29611 Ford Road in Garden City.
• Major retailers:
  • IKEA: Features a “See you after sunset” line with home decor, textiles, lighting and tableware designed around themes of togetherness and hospitality to create a warm setting for iftar meals and post-sunset gatherings, according to the company.
  • Michaels: Sells Ramadan-themed table decor, lanterns, pillow covers and lights online.
  • Target: Offers Ramadan and Eid decorations online, including banners, activity kits, tablecloths and photo booth props, along with children’s books about Ramadan.
  • Walmart: Provides an online Ramadan section featuring lighting, serving trays, table decor, children’s books, greeting cards and gift bags.

Dearborn services during Ramadan

City services are also adjusting to accommodate residents observing Ramadan.

The gym and fitness area at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn will remain open to members until midnight Tuesday through Saturday during Ramadan, from Feb. 24 through March 21, according to the city.

The extended hours are available to members ages 18 and older. Accessible facilities will include the fitness area, basketball courts and indoor track. The pool will be closed during the extended hours.