Mental Health Chai Chats: Barriers to Your Best Ramadan
2024-02-29 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | IL
Chai Chat is back! Join us as we host esteemed guests in the mental health and wellness space to discover ways to break barriers in order to make the most of the blessed Ramadan season and strive for wellness, healing and transformation. Please register for only the event(s) you plan to attend. Please select childcare tickets for your kids and general admission for yourself if you plan to utilize the service.

Ramadan Souk by Mecca Connect!
2024-03-02 11:00 - 17:00 | IL
🌙 Welcome to the Ramadan Souk by Mecca Connect – Your Gateway to a Unique Ramadan Experience! 🌙
Embark on a journey of cultural richness and festive joy at the much-anticipated Ramadan Souk brought to you by Mecca Connect. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Ramadan with an array of delightful offerings that celebrate the essence of this special season.
✨ **Explore Exquisite Ramadan Decor:**
Transform your home into a haven of warmth and spirituality with our curated collection of Ramadan decor. From elegant lanterns to intricately designed prayer mats, elevate your surroundings and embrace the beauty of the holy month.
🎨 **Artisan Crafts Galore:**
Discover the craftsmanship of talented artisans as you browse through a diverse selection of handcrafted treasures. From pottery to calligraphy, each piece tells a unique story and brings a touch of authenticity to your Ramadan celebrations.
📚 **Mecca Library Tour and Book Fair:**
Embark on a fascinating tour of the new Mecca Library, a haven for book lovers. Dive into the world of literature with our exclusive Book Fair, featuring a diverse range of books catering to all ages and interests. Knowledge, after all, is the true light of the soul.
🧕 **Elegance in Every Thread – Abayas and Hijabs:**
Step into a world of modest elegance with our exquisite collection of abayas and hijabs. Whether you’re looking for traditional styles or contemporary flair, our range is designed to make you feel confident and graceful throughout the Ramadan festivities.
📖 **Story Time and Puppet Show:**
Bring the magic of storytelling to life for your little ones! Join us for enchanting Story Time sessions and a delightful Puppet Show that will captivate young hearts and minds, creating lasting memories for the entire family.
🛍️ **Shop and Savor:**
Indulge in a shopping experience like no other, with an array of stalls offering a variety of products – from home decor to artisanal crafts and everything in between. Find unique treasures that reflect the spirit of Ramadan and make perfect gifts for your loved ones.
Join us at the Ramadan Souk by Mecca Connect and celebrate the beauty of Ramadan in a vibrant, inclusive, and heartwarming atmosphere. We invite you to share in the joy, connect with the community, and create lasting memories during this sacred season.
Save the date and make this Ramadan truly special with Mecca Connect! 🌙✨

The Mecca Center Library Grand Opening
2024-03-02 11:00 - 17:00 | IL
You are invited to The Mecca Center’s Grand Opening Celebration of our Library and Ramadan Book Fair!
Join us as we embark on a journey of knowledge and spirituality with the inauguration of our brand-new library, designed to be a sanctuary for learning, exploration, and enlightenment. Whether you’re a book enthusiast, a seeker of wisdom, or simply curious about the treasures that lie within the pages, our library is here to welcome you with open arms.
But that’s not all! In the spirit of Ramadan, we’re thrilled to invite you to explore our Ramadan Book Fair, where you’ll discover a curated selection of literature that celebrates the beauty and significance of this blessed month. From timeless classics to contemporary works, there’s something for everyone to enrich their understanding and appreciation of Ramadan.
And while you’re here, don’t forget to visit our Ramadan Souk, where you can shop for unique gifts, decor, and essentials to make this Ramadan truly special. From exquisite prayer rugs to aromatic incense, handmade crafts to delectable treats, our souk is a treasure trove of delights just waiting to be explored.
Join us as we come together to celebrate the richness of our culture, the warmth of community, and the boundless blessings of Ramadan. We can’t wait to welcome you to The Mecca Center for an unforgettable experience that will nourish your mind, body, and soul.
See you at the Grand Opening!

The Inner Dimensions of Fasting
2024-03-09 17:00 - 20:00 | IL
🌟 Join us for a transformative journey into the inner dimensions of fasting! 🌟
🕰️ Date & Time: Saturday, March 9th, at 5 PM 🎙️ Special Guest: Ustadh Hisham Mahmoud
Embark on a soulful exploration as we delve into the profound practice of fasting, not just as an act of abstaining from food, but as a holistic approach to nourishing the mind, body, and soul. 🌿✨
In this workshop, we’ll learn how to prepare ourselves mentally, physically, and spiritually for the upcoming fasting season. Ustadh Hisham Mahmoud will guide us through the inner dimensions of fasting, unveiling its deeper significance and providing practical insights for a fulfilling fasting experience.
Whether you’re new to fasting or seeking to deepen your understanding, this workshop promises to be enriching for all. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to align your intentions and prepare for a transformative fasting journey.
Mark your calendars and join us on Saturday, March 9th, at 5 PM. See you there! 🌙

Journey through the Quran
2024-03-10 08:00 - 2024-04-07 17:00 | IL
🌟 Embark on a Spiritual Journey Through the Quran with Shaykh Yousef Wahb! 🌟
Dive deep into the timeless wisdom and divine guidance of the Quran in our weekly lecture series led by the esteemed Shaykh Yousef Wahb. Join us every Sunday throughout the holy month of Ramadan for an enlightening exploration of the Quran’s teachings, designed to foster a profound connection with the sacred text.
In these captivating lectures, Shaykh Yousef Wahb will unravel the layers of meaning within the Quran, offering valuable insights and practical applications to enrich your spiritual journey. Each session promises to be an immersive experience, guiding you towards a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Quran’s profound message.
Let’s come together as a community to strengthen our connection with the Quran and draw inspiration for our lives. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to deepen your understanding of the Quran and nourish your soul during the blessed month of Ramadan. Mark your calendars and join us every Sunday for a spiritual voyage through the Quran with Shaykh Yousef Wahb.

Welcome Ramadan into your hearts and homes! 🌙
2024-03-10 17:30 - 19:00 | IL
Join us for a gathering of reflections and remembrance as we joyously celebrate the arrival of our beloved guest, Ramadan. ✨
🗓️ Date: March 10th 🕒 Time: Immediately after Asr prayer
Featuring esteemed speakers: 🌟 Shaykh Yousef Wahb 🌟 Ustadh Hisham Mahmoud 🌟 Shaykh Tariq Muslef
Prepare to immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance as we usher in this blessed month with prayers, reflections, and heartfelt connections. Let’s embrace Ramadan’s arrival with open hearts and minds, welcoming its blessings into every corner of our lives.
Mark your calendars and join us on March 10th after Asr prayer. Together, let’s make this Ramadan a journey of transformation and enlightenment! 🌟

Ramadan Children's Program
2024-03-10 20:00 - 2024-04-10 22:00 | IL
Embark on an enchanting journey of discovery and joy with our specially crafted Children’s Ramadan Program!
🌟 What is the Children’s Ramadan Program?
It is a magical experience designed just for little ones during the blessed month of Ramadan. We’ve woven together a tapestry of fun, learning, and excitement to make this Ramadan extra special for your children.

Community Unity Iftar
2024-03-11 18:00 - 20:30 | IL
Please join us with family and friends to kick off Ramadan with a community iftar! We’ll welcome Ramadan inshaAllah in a beautiful way by opening with a dars from our beloved Outreach Director, Shaykh Tariq Musleh, and honorable guest and scholar, Shaykh Yousef Wahb, followed by du’a led by our respected Qari Sinan Hafez.

Admission is $10 per person, and no childcare will be provided

The Mecca Center and CIOGC Muslim-Methodist Interfaith Iftar
2024-03-20 17:30 - 20:00 | IL
Bringing together hearts and traditions: Celebrating Ramadan with our Methodist friends at an inspiring interfaith dinner.

Last 10 Nights of Ramadan
2024-03-25 20:00 - 22:00 | IL
Embark on a journey of enlightenment this Ramadan! Join us for captivating conversations during the final 10 nights as we delve into the profound teachings of Luqman the Wise, alongside Shaykh Tariq and a different esteemed guest every night. Let’s deepen our understanding and embrace the wisdom together.

Eid Toy Drive
2024-03-30 08:00 - 2024-04-01 17:00 | IL
Join The Mecca Center and ICNA Relief for Eid Toy Drive!
Celebrate the spirit of giving this Eid by joining hands with The Mecca Center and ICNA Relief for our annual Eid Toy Drive! From March 30th to April 1st, we invite you to be a part of this wonderful initiative, spreading joy and happiness to children in need.
How You Can Help:
We’re accepting donations of new toys suitable for children aged 1 to 11. Whether it’s a cuddly teddy bear, a fun board game, or a colorful puzzle, every contribution counts in making a child’s Eid brighter.
For older kids aged 12 and above, we welcome gift cards. These allow older children to choose gifts that suit their interests and preferences, ensuring they have a memorable Eid experience too.
Why Your Contribution Matters:
Your generosity can make a world of difference in the lives of children who may otherwise miss out on the joy of Eid celebrations. Many of these children come from low-income or refugee backgrounds, facing various challenges in their lives. By coming together as a community, we can ensure that every child receives a gift that brings a smile to their face on this special occasion.
How to Donate:
Bringing a little happiness into a child’s life is as easy as dropping off your donations at The Mecca Center between March 30th and April 1st. Your support will go a long way in making this Eid memorable for children in our community.
Let’s make this Eid a truly joyous occasion for all children. Join us in spreading the spirit of generosity and compassion this season. Together, we can make a difference, one toy at a time.
Thank you for your kindness and support!

Community Health Awareness Program
2024-03-30 10:00 - 12:00 | IL
Join The Mecca Center alongside with our partners- Chicago Muslim Medical Alliance, Middle Eastern Pharmacist Association, and Midwestern University every other month for an enlightening discussion on health, diet, and lifestyle.

At our community health awareness program, we aim to empower you with knowledge that can transform lives. Together, we’ll delve into topics ranging from nutrition to mental well-being, ensuring you have the tools to make informed decisions about your health.
As a participant, you’ll also have the opportunity to receive a complimentary health vision and dental screening, provided by our dedicated healthcare professionals. It’s our commitment to ensuring everyone has access to essential health services.
Join us in our mission to promote a healthier community. Together, we can make strides towards a brighter, healthier future. Take the first step towards a healthier you!

Last 10 Nights of Ramadan- Qiyam Program
2024-03-31 03:00 - 2024-04-08 04:30 | IL
Join the Mecca Center for the last 10 nights of Ramadan Qiyam program. Every night from 3:00 AM to 4:30 AM, we will gather for prayer, dua (supplication), and reminders. Light suhoor will be served, and individuals are welcome to bring their own. Let’s make the most of these blessed nights together in worship and reflection.

The Heart's Joy in Remembering Laylat al-Qadr- Book Launch
2024-03-31 16:30 - 17:30 | IL
Join us for ‘The Heart’s Joy in Remembering Laylat al-Qadr’ Book Launch 📚✨ Delve into Shaykh Yousef’s inspiring journey of editing and authoring this manuscript. Explore the depths of Laylat al-Qadr and its profound significance. Save the date: Sunday, March 31st at 4:30 PM. Don’t miss this enlightening event! #LaylatAlQadr #BookLaunch #Inspiration”

ConverTsations- Ramadan Reflections and Potluck Iftar
2024-03-31 17:30 - 21:00 | IL
Join us for an enriching experience as we come together in the spirit of Ramadan for an evening of profound reflections and heartfelt connections. ConverTsations invites you to a unique event that combines the essence of Ramadan with the warmth of communal gathering through our Potluck Iftar.
What to Expect:
Reflective Conversations: Immerse yourself in insightful discussions guided by the themes of Ramadan. Share your thoughts, reflections, and personal experiences as we explore the spiritual significance of this sacred month.
Community Potluck Iftar: Indulge in a diverse array of mouthwatering dishes lovingly prepared by members of our community. From traditional favorites to modern interpretations, our Potluck Iftar promises to tantalize your taste buds and create lasting culinary memories.
Bonding and Camaraderie: Forge new friendships and strengthen existing bonds as we break bread together in a spirit of unity and solidarity. Celebrate the diversity of our community as we come together to share stories, laughter, and joyous moments.
Meaningful Connections: Experience the true essence of Ramadan as we engage in acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity. Extend a hand of friendship to those around you and embrace the spirit of giving that defines this blessed month.

Community Iftar Series
2024-04-08 18:00 - 20:00 | IL
Join us every Monday during the blessed month of Ramadan for an enriching experience with our esteemed special guests: Shaykh Tariq Musleh, Shaykh Noman Hussain, and Qari Sinan Hafez. Prepare to delve deep into the lives and teachings of the noble companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
✨ Journey Through History: Embark on a spiritual journey as we explore the lives and legacies of Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq, Omar Ibn Al-Khattab, Uthman Ibn Affan, and Ali bin Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with them). Gain profound insights and lessons from their exemplary lives, filled with unwavering faith, wisdom, and sacrifice.
📜 What to Expect:

Inspirational talks on the virtues and teachings of the companions.
Reflections on their unparalleled contributions to Islam.
Engaging discussions on applying their wisdom to our daily lives.
Heart-touching dua led by Qari Sinan Hafez.
Community Iftar with our brothers and sisters.

🌟 Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your connection with Allah (SWT) and gain valuable insights from the lives of these remarkable companions. Join us for an unforgettable Ramadan experience!

Ceasefire Tour - Sammy Obeid: ZF and Mecca Center Gaza Relief
2024-04-15 19:00 - 21:30 | IL
In light of recent information regarding older content from the main act of the comedy show, the Mecca Center has made a decision to withdraw its sponsorship of the event.
The Comedy Show is still taking place, but under new sponsorship; and individuals who have already purchased their tickets on the Mecca Center website are still valid. CLICK HERE for the new registration page.

Fitness Room Open House
2024-04-21 16:30 - 18:00 | IL
Join us this Sunday, April 21st for our Fitness Room Open House! Check out our state-of-the-art equipment, our hours, and register ON THE SPOT for the first day of opening on Monday, April 22nd!

Mecca MVMT: Sprouts - Earth Week
2024-04-24 18:30 - 20:00 | IL
SPROUTS🌱
New Mecca MVMT monthly program for boys & girls ages 7-9!
Wednesday, April 24th
6:30-8:00 PM
Meet in Back Parking Lot of the Mecca Center
Must Register: Max 50 boys & 50 girls
Join us as we connect with nature, decorate our own pots, and plant seedlings for all to take home 🪴 Shaykh Mohammad will discuss the importance of being Caretakers of the Earth 🌎 and we will enjoy snacks and juice 🧃 together as a group! Please pick-up promptly at 8:00 PM ⏱️

Women's Tatreez Workshop
2024-04-26 18:00 - 21:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Please join us for a night of tatreez and tea! The Mecca Center is proud to host Badan Collective for a tatreez workshop, showcasing the traditional art of Palestinian embroidery.
ABOUT THE CLASS:
This is a beginner’s workshop ideal for those with little to no tatreez experience. There is a 30 minute teaching portion in the beginning where brief Palestinian history is covered, followed by a demo on the mechanics of cross-stitching. The rest of the workshop is hands-on. Students will take home their finished piece.
CLASS DETAILS:
Friday, April 26th, 6-9 pm
The Mecca Center Multi-purpose Room
Women and Girls (16 and up) $30/person
Info: athar@meccacenter.org
Includes a Tatreez Kit (stitching patterns, needle, thread, Aida cloth fabric). No need to bring anything additional to class! Light refreshments served
ABOUT BADAN:
Badan is a creative design house and educational space that equips Palestinians of the diaspora with the access, tools, and knowledge necessary to practice the tradition of tatreez. With every stitch, we mobilize a collective movement, for ourselves and future generations.

One Ummah, One Voice
2024-04-27 19:00 - 22:00 | IL
Join us for a night of empowerment and unity at the Women’s Open Mic event hosted by The Well Circle, Ilham Collective, & The Mecca Center! Let’s raise our voices together and celebrate the power of sisterhood. See you on April 27th, 7-10 PM at The Mecca Center!
Women 18+ performers & spectators welcome!
Details & tickets: thewellcircle.org

From Seed to Table
2024-04-28 15:00 - 16:30 | IL
Discover the delights of gardening together with The Mecca Center at our very first Community Garden Workshop! Bring the whole family for a fun-filled session where we’ll show you how to plant seeds in pots, ideal for nurturing vibrant plants all through the sunny season. All ages are invited to join in on the green-thumb excitement!

3rd Annual Converts’ Conference
2024-05-03 18:30 - 2024-05-05 18:30 | IL
The Mecca Center’s 3rd Annual Converts’ Conference
hosted by the Convert Engagement Committee at the Mecca Center
Steadfast Believers: Facing Adversity with Faith
May 3-5, 2023
Together, we will examine a variety of scholarly and community perspectives on the history of maintaining
unwavering faith in the face of adversity and explore strategies all Muslims can employ today to stay on the
right path.
Friday, May 3 (Prayer Hall):
❖ 6:30-8pm: Community Night with Dr. Ahmed Arafat: Prophetic Examples of Resilience
➢ Lecture and Q&A
Saturday, May 4 (Banquet Hall)
❖ 1:30-2:00 pm: Opening: Registration, Welcome, and Community Engagement Activity
UNDERSTANDING OUR CHALLENGES
❖ 2:00-3:45pm
➢ Mike Swies: Current Challenges of the Convert Community in the Chicago Area and Beyond.
➢ Dr. Will Caldwell: Understanding our Challenges through the experience of the Companions.
➢ Q&A
➢ Practical Workshop: Active Reflection
MEETING THE CHALLENGES
❖ 4:00-5:45pm:
➢ Donna Neil-Demir: Responding to Islamophobia: Prophetic Strategies
➢ Hazel Gomez: Hardship as a Source of Strength
➢ Q&A
➢ Practical Workshop: Role-modeling Tactics, Table Discussions.
❖ 6pm: Asr Prayer
IDENTIFYING STRATEGIES
❖ 6:15-7:50pm:
➢ Ustadh Ubaydullah Evans: Resilience Building Strategies
➢ Panel discussion with the conference speakers (30min)
➢ Conference closing
❖ 7:59pm: Maghrib Prayer
❖ 8:15-9:30pm: Dinner
❖ 9:30pm: Isha Prayer
Sunday, May 5 (Banquet Hall)
6-7:30pm: ConverTsations: Conference Takeaways

Wellness Walks
2024-05-04 08:00 - 2024-05-25 17:00 | IL
🌿 Ready to step into wellness this May? Join us every Saturday for our Wellness Walks! 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️ Whether you’re a seasoned walker or just getting started, everyone’s welcome! Let’s stroll together to nourish our minds, bodies, and souls. See you there!
Registration is required- please fill out the google form linked here
Join our whatsapp group for regular updates: HERE

Bouquets and Boba- A heartwarming celebration of motherhood
2024-05-09 16:00 - 18:00 | IL
Mecca Connect invites you to join us for a heartwarming celebration of motherhood with our event “Bouquets and Boba.” Set against the backdrop of love and appreciation, we’ll gather together to craft beautiful flower bouquets and indulge in the delightful flavors of boba.
Mothers play an irreplaceable role in our lives, brightening our world with their unconditional love and nurturing spirit. This event is our way of honoring and expressing gratitude to these incredible women who enrich our lives every day.
Partnering with Boba Heaven and Dessert Cart Rentals, we’ve curated an experience that combines creativity with culinary delight. Get ready to immerse yourself in the art of flower arrangement as you craft a stunning bouquet, while also treating your taste buds to the refreshing sweetness of boba drinks.
Tickets for this special occasion are available for $15, which includes one bouquet and one boba drink per registration. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance!
Join us as we come together to celebrate the mothers who deserve all the love and appreciation in the world. Let’s make this a memorable occasion filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments.

Gardening and The Growth Mindset
2024-05-11 17:00 | IL
Join us on Saturday, May 11th, at 5:00 PM for an enriching session with Dr. Mousab Almusaddy and Sister Sabuhi Athar as we delve into the world of gardening and the growth mindset.
Gardening isn’t just about planting seeds and watching them grow; it’s a journey of nurturing, patience, and continuous learning. In this interactive event, we’ll roll up our sleeves and explore the symbiotic relationship between tending to a garden and fostering personal growth.
Dr. Mousab Almusaddy and Sister Sabuhi Athar will share their expertise and insights on gardening techniques, offering practical tips and tricks to help you cultivate a thriving garden. But beyond the soil and seeds, we’ll also delve into the profound lessons gardens can impart on our mental and emotional well-being.
Discover how cultivating a garden can parallel the principles of the growth mindset, teaching us resilience, adaptability, and the power of persistence in the face of challenges. Through engaging discussions and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the transformative potential of embracing a growth-oriented perspective in all aspects of life.
This event isn’t just for seasoned gardeners; it’s for anyone curious about the parallels between nurturing plants and nurturing personal development. Bring the whole family along for an afternoon of learning, inspiration, and connection.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to sow the seeds of growth, both in your garden and in your life. Reserve your spot now and embark on a journey of discovery with us!

Parent and Child Paint Night
2024-05-13 17:00 - 19:30 | IL
🎨 Strengthen bonds and foster creativity! Join Sister Amen Sardar and AbdulAziz Syed, LCSW, School Counselor at MCC Academy, for a memorable Parent & Child Paint Night experience. This event offers more than just painting; it’s a chance to learn valuable communication techniques for your home while engaging in a fun-filled activity with your child. Don’t miss this opportunity for connection, creativity, and growth! You and your child or children will work on separate individual pieces that will come together to create one overall piece of art.

IMPORTANT NOTES: To attend, children must be at least 5 years of age and at most 18 and WITH AN ADULT, and one ticket is required PER PERSON (e.g. separate ticket for parent and child(ren)).

Sister's Fitness Room Orientation
2024-05-15 09:00 - 10:00 | IL
Learn how best to use equipment in our new fitness room, get introduced to the group training classes we’ll be offering, and discuss the role of nutrition with NASM-Certified Personal Trainer Abby Mohammed.

Tatreez and a Talk on Trauma
2024-05-15 18:00 - 21:00 | IL
Join Sister Bayan Fares LSW, Sister Sujod Bdaiwi, and the Badan Collective in partnership with Khalil Center for an evening of healing, resilience, and community connection.
In this unique workshop-style event, we’ll gather together to explore the art of tatreez, traditional Palestinian embroidery, as a powerful tool for stitching resilience and coping with trauma. Against the backdrop of ongoing challenges, particularly the heartbreaking situation in Gaza, we’ll delve into effective coping methods and strategies for healing secondary trauma.
Whether you’re an experienced stitcher or new to the art, all are welcome. Bring your current tatreez project and stitch alongside us, or if you’re just beginning, supplies and instruction will be provided. Just come as you are, ready to engage in meaningful conversation, creativity, and solidarity.
This event is more than just a workshop; it’s a space for community, support, and collective healing. Together, we’ll share stories, insights, and techniques for navigating difficult times with resilience and strength.

Global Clothing Drive
2024-05-18 11:00 - 16:00 | IL
📢 Calling all volunteers! 🙋‍♂️🙋‍♀️ We need your helping hands on Saturday, May 18, from 11 AM to 4 PM! Join us in making a difference in our community. Contact Amna Saeed at (630) 440-0794, Mushtaq Saleemi at (773) 226-3368, or Mobasshir Khan at (331) 315-7937 to sign up!
💲 We’re also accepting donations of brand new or like-new items to support those in need. Check out the list of accepted items and let’s spread some kindness together! Donations can be made online at hhrd.org/In-kind.
❗ Please note our packing instructions to ensure your donations are acceptable. Let’s make a positive impact together!
