Birmingham Hosts Largest Eid al-Fitr Celebration in Europe
Record numbers of Muslim worshippers from around the world came together at Small Heath Park for Eid-al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan.
Organizers estimate that as many as 106,000 people were at this year’s event.
Families, some of whom had travelled from as far as the US, prayed in unison at 9am to mark the start of the holy day.
They then enjoyed the many stalls and activities available, which included fairground rides, miniature golf and laser clay pigeon shooting.
During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims spend a month fasting every day from dawn until dusk.
They do it for many reasons, one of which is to empathize with those who cannot eat through poverty or famine.
The Celebrate Eid event, hosted by Green Lane Masjid and Community Centre, is now in its seventh year.
It has seen growing numbers since its first major event in 2012, when 12,000 people attended.
A spokesperson for the Masjid said: ‘This celebration is one of the most important in the Islamic religious calendar and it’s an opportunity for us all to come together in peace and unity.
‘We’re all overwhelmed that so many people from different faiths and from across the world have travelled to Birmingham for this year’s Celebrate Eid.
‘We’ve been working for months with five local mosques and our charity partner, Human Appeal, to organize the community for a memorable day of prayer, games and fun.’
Source: metro.co.uk
