Bryan Stalder
Contributor

As spring approaches, many families in the Northeast will observe religious celebrations such as Lent, Ramadan, or Passover. For members of the Baha’i Faith, however, February and March mark Ayyám-i-Há—a multi-day period devoted to generosity, hospitality, and acts of kindness. Known as the “Days of Joy,” Ayyám-i-Há is observed from February 26 to March 1 in 2026, immediately preceding the Baha’i month of fasting.

During Ayyám-i-Há, Baha’i followers focus on fostering fellowship, giving to those in need, and celebrating unity across communities. Activities often include hosting small gatherings, sharing meals, giving gifts, and performing acts of service.

“It’s a time to celebrate generosity, joy, and unity,” said Afsaneh Zaeri, a member of the Kansas City Baha’i community. “People gather, share meals, give to those in need, and think about how to bring hope to their communities.”

The Baha’i Faith first took root in Kansas City nearly 130 years ago, with the earliest known adherent, Mrs. Hatch, registering in 1896. Over the decades, a small but vibrant local assembly formed, drawing people from diverse backgrounds inspired by the teachings of Baháu’lláh, who proclaimed a message of global oneness in 1863. Central to Baha’i teachings is the oneness of humanity and the oneness of religion—the belief that the world’s major faith traditions come from the same divine source and represent successive chapters of one unfolding religion. This understanding, often described as “progressive revelation,” encourages Baha’is to look beyond religious and cultural differences and to work toward unity in everyday life.

“Baha’is are committed to learning how to translate this vision of oneness into practical expression at the level of a neighborhood,” Zaeri said. “What does it look like to view everyone as your sister or brother? These are the questions we’re trying to live into through our relationships and service.”

Today, Kansas City’s Baha’i community includes hundreds of members who meet in homes, community spaces, and other venues throughout the city. “The Baha’i Faith is decentralized,” Zaeri explained. “There is no clergy, so community life is shaped by the efforts of members and collaborators throughout the city. Our gatherings, study circles, and service projects happen wherever people come together to live these principles—in Northeast and beyond.”

One of the most distinctive practices of the Baha’i community is the Nineteen Day Feast, which occurs every 19 days, marking the start of each Baha’i month. The Baha’i calendar consists of 19 months of 19 days each, with the final month devoted to fasting. Ayyám-i-Há falls just before that fasting month and lasts four or five days, depending on the year. These “intercalary days” are sometimes described as days outside of time, set aside for joy, generosity, and preparation for a period of spiritual reflection.

The Nineteen Day Feast includes three portions: devotional, administrative, and social. The first portion is a time for prayer and reflection, the second is for consultation on community needs and plans, and the final portion is social—a chance for members to share food, friendship, and fellowship. “The Feast isn’t just a meeting,” Zaeri explained. “It’s a way for the community to come together regularly, strengthen bonds, support one another, and discuss how to put our faith into action.”

In Kansas City, Baha’is also organize study circles, children’s classes that teach peace and compassion through art and storytelling, and service projects that extend beyond the Faith, reflecting its emphasis on unity, understanding, and practical action.

While there is a permanent space—the Kansas City Baha’i Center located at 6515 Independence Avenue—that hosts events and gatherings, Zaeri emphasizes that it is just one of many places where Baha’is practice their faith and contribute to community life. “The heart of the Faith is in the people themselves and the connections they foster,” she said.

As Kansas City continues to evolve, the Baha’i community remains a steady presence, showing that unity, understanding, and service are not just ideals, but daily practices.

For information about upcoming events and Ayyám-i-Há celebrations from February 26 to March 1, 2026, visit the Kansas City Baha’is on Facebook or email secretary@kcmobahai.org. All are welcome.