Sixth Annual Community Sahar and Food Bank Drive

In a city widely known for its diversity and welcoming spirit, Calgary continues to demonstrate how people from different cultures and faiths can live together with respect and cooperation. The city has long been recognized as one of Canada’s most multicultural urban centres, where individuals from many backgrounds practice their religions freely while maintaining a strong sense of community harmony. Throughout the year, people of different faiths often participate in one another’s cultural celebrations, strengthening bonds of friendship and mutual understanding. This spirit of unity becomes especially visible during the holy month of Ramadan, when community gatherings, charitable activities, and interfaith engagement bring people together in meaningful ways.

As Ramadan 2026 reaches its midpoint in Calgary, one community initiative is once again drawing attention for its remarkable growth and impact. Over the past several years, a well-known local realtor and the creator of Hayyat Homes, Shoukat Hayat, along with his wife and partner Sana, has been organizing a unique community event that blends charity, faith, and interfaith connection. What began five years ago as a modest gathering has gradually transformed into one of the most anticipated Ramadan community events in the city.

Now in its sixth year, the annual Community Sahar and Food Bank Drive has grown significantly in both size and influence. When the initiative first started, it was organized on a small scale with only a limited number of participants. However, the dedication and sincerity behind the effort attracted increasing support from the community each year. With Shoukat Hayat’s leadership and the continued commitment of volunteers and supporters, the program has expanded into a large-scale event that brings together people from all walks of life.

The upcoming gathering is scheduled to begin at 9:00 p.m. on March 7, 2026, and will continue through the night until Fajr prayer on the morning of March 8. The event will take place at Dera Banquet Hall, a venue expected to welcome a large number of participants for this special occasion. Organizers expect an impressive turnout, estimating that between 8,000 and 10,000 people may attend. Such participation reflects the strong community spirit that Calgary residents have developed over the years.

This year’s program has been carefully designed to offer both spiritual inspiration and community engagement. The evening will feature a variety of activities including Quran recitation, Hamd and Naat performances, and Islamic speeches reflecting the deeper values of Ramadan such as compassion, charity, humility, and unity. Stage performances will add a cultural dimension to the gathering, while speakers will highlight the importance of community service and helping those in need.

To further encourage participation and excitement, organizers have also arranged three Umrah ticket prizes, adding a special spiritual incentive for attendees. The announcement has generated considerable enthusiasm among community members who see the event not only as a celebration of Ramadan but also as an opportunity to strengthen their faith and connection with the wider community.

One of the most meaningful aspects of the gathering is its strong charitable focus. All food donations collected during the event will be directed to the Calgary Food Bank, ensuring that families facing economic hardship receive support. In this way, the event transforms a religious gathering into a powerful act of social responsibility, reminding participants that Ramadan is not only about fasting but also about generosity and caring for others.

The organizers have emphasized that the event is open to everyone, regardless of religion or background. Local businesses, community organizations, political and non-political figures, and residents from every walk of life are invited to participate. Both Muslims and non-Muslims regularly attend, turning the night into a meaningful interfaith experience where people learn about one another’s traditions while sharing food and conversation.

Community leaders say initiatives like this reflect the true spirit of Calgary. In a time when divisions often dominate global headlines, local efforts such as the Community Sahar and Food Bank Drive demonstrate how cooperation and goodwill can build bridges between communities.

For Shoukat Hayat and Sana, the continued growth of the event is both humbling and inspiring. Their goal has always been simple: to create a gathering that encourages charity, strengthens faith, and brings people together. Seeing thousands of people now preparing to attend shows how a sincere idea, when supported by the community, can evolve into something much larger than originally imagined.

As the night of March 7 approaches, volunteers are preparing for what promises to be one of Calgary’s most memorable Ramadan gatherings at Dera Banquet Hall. With spiritual reflection, cultural expression, charitable giving, and interfaith participation all under one roof, the event stands as a powerful reminder that acts of kindness and unity can resonate far beyond a single evening.

In a city proud of its diversity, this growing tradition reflects the best of Calgary’s community values—generosity, respect, and the shared belief that helping others brings people closer together.