Worshippers stand in rows during prayer at a mosque in London, Ont., marking Eid al Fitr at the end of Ramadan. (Photo: LMM)
Large crowds gathered across London on Friday to mark Eid al Fitr, as the celebration this year coincided with the first day of spring.
Worshippers filled mosques and overflow prayer spaces early in the morning, with many arriving well before the start of prayers. Organizers say attendance reached into the thousands at several locations across the city.
The timing of Eid with the first day of spring added another layer of meaning for many, as both mark a sense of renewal following a period of reflection and discipline.
At the London Muslim Mosque, one of the city’s largest gathering spaces, people lined up outside as the building quickly reached capacity.
“It was really busy this morning,” said Ahmed Hussein, who attended prayers with friends and family. “You could see how many people came out. It felt like the whole community was there.”
Ramadan Muburak (Photo: Adam Duffy)
Eid al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a month when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset and focus on prayer, charity and self-reflection.
After morning prayers, people moved on to celebrations throughout the city, including family gatherings, shared meals and visits with relatives.
For some, the overlap with the start of spring stood out.
“It feels like a fresh start,” said Fatima Ali, a Fanshawe College student. “After Ramadan, you already feel that, but with spring starting the same day, it makes it even more special.”
Ali said the atmosphere across the city was noticeable.
“Everyone is in a good mood. You can see people outside, dressed up, visiting each other. It feels so lively.”
Community members say large turnouts like this have become more common in recent years, with more people attending prayers and public celebrations.
By the afternoon, celebrations had shifted from mosques to homes and community spaces across the city.
Outside of London Muslim Mosque. (Photo: LMM)
“It is a day people look forward to all month,” Hussein said. “Being able to celebrate it together like this means a lot.”
