BC Place welcomes back Muslim worshippers for Eid celebrations

Billions of Muslims around the world are celebrating Eid al-Fitr in full swing, after two years of subdued festivities due to pandemic restrictions.

In Vancouver, hundreds of worshippers are expected to file into BC Place Monday morning for prayers and celebrations.

The official prayer is scheduled to start at 9 a.m. with the festivities and exchange of gifts happening in the afternoon.

Eid marks the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, when Muslims fast from dawn to dusk.

The holiday is typically celebrated with communal prayers, large gatherings and festive meals, all of which were a challenge during the height of the pandemic.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sent his warmest wishes to the Islamic community.

“Canada is a diverse country and everyone should feel safe. And my friends, it’s our shared responsibility to make that a reality. Muslim Canadians make tremendous contributions to Canada’s national fabric and today we celebrate those contributions,” Trudeau said in a video posted on Twitter.

Trudeau hosted an Iftar in Ottawa and spent time with the Muslim community in Cambridge, Ont.

“We spoke about what this month means for Muslims and how special it was to be able to come together again at your mosques for prayer and to community centers with friends and family. I also heard about your concerns and your fears, fears that Islamophobia continues to be on the rise. But I also heard about your resilience and your optimism,” said Trudeau in the video.

Premier John Horgan also offered his best wishes.

“On behalf of every British Columbian, I wish all those who observed this holy month a joyous end to Ramadan. Eid Mubarak!” wrote Horgan in a statement.

“This year’s Eid al-Fitr celebrations will be special, as we once again welcome the opportunity to see familiar faces and mark this important occasion with loved ones.”

He noted the acts of generosity and compassion, especially for those in need, are central to Eid al-Fitr.

“Through volunteerism, selfless giving and serving as local leaders, the Muslim community continues to help build a stronger British Columbia,” he wrote.

There are no sweeping pandemic restrictions in place for the event at BC Place, but organizers are reminding people not to attend if they’re feeling sick.