Thousands of Muslims celebrated the end of the month-long period of fasting and praying

Sunday, April 2, 2023

Sign-In | Sign-Up | Contact Us | Bookmark

In a cavernous hall decorated with gold balloons that read "Eid Mubarak," or Blessed Eid, they prayed together, bought toys and Islamic books at a bazaar, played in a carnival area and enjoyed baked chicken and cakes. The bustling hall offered a snapshot of the area's growing and diverse Muslim community. There were men in Saudi-style white robes and checkered headdresses, women in glittery saris, teenage boys in hip-hop gear, African immigrants in jewel-toned gowns. Muslim leaders called it a community that is coming of age, reports Washington Post. According to The Seattle Times, last year's Eid service was at the Washington State Convention and Trade Center; the Exhibition Center offered 50 percent more space, Farajallah said. Even so, two services were needed. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. After the Eid service, they celebrate by visiting with friends, calling on the sick, giving to the poor and dining with family. "I don't think folks here have an accurate perception of how diverse Cary is," said Ernie McAlister, the town's mayor. "When you spend any time at all here, you see what a rich and vibrant cultural and religious influence we have." The crowd at Sunday's celebration of Eid-ul Fitr, or the feast of the fast-breaking, was indeed diverse. In addition to Southeast Asian Muslims from Pakistan and India, there were Muslims from Arab and African nations -- and of course, lots of U.S.-born Muslim children. As Muslims kissed and embraced after the 15-minute prayer, they congratulated one another with "Eid Mubarak" or "blessed Eid," informs News Observer

Bookmark Thousands of Muslims celebrated the end of the month-long period of fasting and praying