Eid al Fitr

Eid-al-Fitr History

Eid al-Fitr, also known as 'The Festival of Breaking the Fast', concludes the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. This period of fasting is a time of self-discipline and introspection, honouring the first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad. Eid al-Fitr is an occasion that embodies joy, gratitude, and unity. Traditionally, it involves communal prayers, gift-giving, and special meals, with a focus on charity and good deeds, all essential aspects of the Islamic faith.

Historically, Eid al-Fitr was established by the Prophet Muhammad - narrated to have been introduced after the journey to Medina. The relevance of this festival in Canada reflects the pluralistic fabric of the society, with Muslims comprising over 3% of the total population. As such, Eid al-Fitr fosters appreciation for religious diversity and encourages mutual respect among different faiths. It offers a platform for Muslims to share Islamic traditions with others, and equally, it gives non-Muslims an understanding of Islamic culture. Commemoration events, like community iftars (the meal eaten to break the fast) during Ramadan, often open to the public, exemplify this spirit of cultural exchange.

Eid al-Fitr is observed in Canada with a blend of traditional and local practices. Large congregational prayers are a common sight in mosques, parks, and Islamic centres across the country. Many Muslims also give to charity during this time, encompassing the Islamic principle of Zakat. Additionally, family gatherings, exchange of gifts, and traditional meals enrich the festival's celebrations. The date of observance is contingent on the lunar Islamic calendar, and it varies from year to year, typically observed globally and in Canada at the same time. The specific date is determined by the sighting of the new moon, signalling the end of Ramadan.

Facts about Eid al Fitr

• Prophet Muhammad asked the Muslims of Madinah about two carnivals that they used to engage in. They replied that before Islam, celebrating by setting up grand carnivals was traditional. It is reported that Muhammad said, Instead of those two days, Allah has appointed two other days which are better, the days of Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha. (Book of Hadith).
• In accordance with Islamic tradition, many Muslims wake up extra early on Eid-al-Fitr to take a bath, called ghusl. They also wear the best clothing they own.
• In many Canadian cities, public parks and convention centers are often rented out for the mass prayers that are a significant part of the Eid al-Fitr celebrations. Toronto even has an annual “Eid Festival” held in Dundas Square, right in the heart of the city.
• This day often involves feasts, community gatherings, sharing of gifts, and acts of charity. People dress up in their finest clothes and greet each other with the phrase "Eid Mubarak," meaning "blessed feast."

In the News and Trending in Canada for Eid al Fitr

Top things to do in Canada for Eid-al-Fitr

• In Islamic South Asian communities, sheer khorma is typically made for breakfast. Sheer khorma is a sweet milky dish with broken vermicelli pasta, dried fried dates, and roasted nuts.
• Women often decorate their hands with beautiful henna designs on Eid-al-Fitr. In the United States, many Islamic centers have henna booths set up on the last night of Ramadan.
• Attend the Toronto Eid Festival: This festival celebrates the end of Ramadan with food, fun, and games. There are special activities for children, and vendors sell traditional clothes and food. It's a great way to immerse yourself in Islamic culture.
• Attend the MAC Eid Festival: In Ottawa, the Muslim Association of Canada organizes one of the biggest Eid celebrations. It features a communal prayer, a fun fair, food vendors, and a variety of entertainment for families.