Celebrations and Customs

Q: A few Muslim people that I have come across have said they are going to attend the Durban botanical garden trail of lights event. This is where the whole garden is lit up and there are light decorations and things like that. 

Upon looking online I found that there are a variety of lights, and some include a Christmas tree, the animal carrying a cart with Santa Clause, there is even people dressed in crusts outfits and Santa clause. The advert mentions it is in the spirit of the season as well. This is a non Muslim event and there is also music and other things. 

These people still insist there is nothing wrong with just seeing lights and say we not going there for the Christmas items just to walk around and see the lights. 

Mufti sahab, many Muslims are going for this event, and they believe there is nothing wrong. Please can you check it and provide a ruling stating why it's not permissible to go there and the reasons to get them to understand. I can forward this to all of them.

Q: If my non-Muslim neighbour gives me money for my birthday, is it permissible for me to use that money?

Q: Is it acceptable for Muslims to say “Happy Birthday” to others?

Q: I live in India. In my locality most of the people are non-Muslim and I want to know if it is okay to take them as close friends and participate in their religious gatherings or festivities and alike? 

Very few greet by saying Namaste how to reply to it? 

Q: Is it appropriate for students (both male and female) to ask teachers (both male and female) to sign or write their names on the clothes the students are wearing during annual or farewell day celebrations in school? And is it permissible for a teacher to do it?

Q: Is it permissible to celebrate Thanksgiving?

Q: Is it permissible for a Muslim business owner to give his staff Christmas/new year bonuses?

Q: Can a Muslim go out to view the new year's fireworks? Even if it be standing by his room window and watching the fireworks?

Q: 

1. Is it permissible for a Muslim business owner to promote his business using adverts with Christmas decorations? 

2. Can a Muslim businessman sell Christmas lights, trees, decorations, etc.? 

3. What is the ruling regarding a person decorating his business with Christmas lights, Santa Clause etc.?

Q: I know birthdays are not halal but if a close person invites me, I need to go. So if I went to a birthday party where there is no music, only relatives and close friends, I will not eat the cake but it seems bad if I don't eat the food they ordered, so if I eat the food will it halal for me? Only to eat the food.