Thousands gather for local Eid al-Fitr celebration
Posted Jul 28, 2014 04:31:59 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
OTTAWA — Celebrations are happening across the capital as Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
The day comes after the end of Ramadan — a month of prayer and fasting.
Around 20,000 people in total were expected at the Eid festival held at the Ernst & Young Centre, Monday.
Festival Coordinator Mohamed Gazarin told 1310News the goal of Ramadan is to increase compassion for the less fortunate and develop self-control.
“During this month, if you eat during the day it’s a sin,” said Gazarin, “It’s a major sin.”
Gazarin said Eid is a day where even people who do not regularly attend mosque will gather for the celebrations.
“If someone doesn’t pray at all or go to services at all, they usually go to Eid,” Gazarin explained.
Eid is a day when many donate to charity, feast to mark the end of Ramadan and reconcile their differences with others.
