Montreal’s Muslim community celebrates Eid

Muslims in Montreal marked the end of fasting for the Holy month of Ramadan, with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

A three-day celebration when families and friends gather, exchange gifts and visit one another.

Those who can afford it, are encouraged to wear new clothes to mark the joyous occasion.

Montreal-based non-profit, Hilm hosted an Eid prayer in Dorval.

“The best part about celebrating Eid is reconnecting with loved ones. It’s embracing cultures, embracing the religion and coming together as one,” explained a young man at the event.

“I love the community and I love coming and seeing family and praying as a community,” said one woman.

Over 350 people attended the prayer, with a sermon in English, followed by refreshments, cotton candy, and goodie bags for the children.

“There’s so many different things that I could say that we love about Eid, but I think the most important thing is that it gives us a time after the month of Ramadan to really get together with the community, with our families, our friends and really share in the happiness,” said one man. “To talk about everything that was done in this beautiful month of Ramadan. And, you know, just sort of share that with everybody that we didn’t get a chance to see during the blessed month of Ramadan.”

“But overall, I think just the whole festivities, activities, all the fun part – that’s really what we appreciate about Eid.”

“My favourite part about celebrating Eid is getting together with loved ones and reconnecting with people that we haven’t seen in years, together as a community, as a whole,” said a young woman who attended.

“My favourite past about Eid is to get around with the family and enjoy,” added another.

“My favourite part about Eid… is the oneness you could be with yourself and God too, it’s a very great day,” said another man.