Eid ul Fitr 2024 in Canada – The Festival of Celebration

As we all know Ramadan is about to end and Muslims worldwide are preparing for the festive of Eid. Canadian Muslims after spending their Ramadan 2024 in Canada are now looking to celebrate Eid ul Fitr 2024 in Canada with great passion and enthusiasm. 

Eid ul Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, which is also known as the month of celebration for Muslims.

If you are new in Canada, you might be wondering how to celebrate your Eid this year. What do Canadians do on Eid every year? There might be various questions in your mind. 

To guide you better about Eid Ul Fitr in Canada, we are writing this comprehensive guide that will solve all your queries. 

So, let’s start with the very first question:

When is Eid ul Fitr 2024 in Canada? 

The month of Ramadan 2024 started on 11th March 2024 in Canada and according to the schedule, Eid will fall on 10th April 2024 in Canada. The month of Shawwal will commence on the evening of 9th April 2024 and the first day of Eid will be the next day.

Eid 2024 Celebration in Canada

Eid celebrations in Canada vary depending on the region and the size of the Muslim community in a particular area. However,  the two Eids, Eid ul-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, both are celebrated with great enthusiasm among the Muslims across the country.

During Eid ul-Fitr, Muslims gather for prayers at mosques, community centers, or outdoor parks early in the morning. After the prayers, they exchange greetings and wish each other. Moreover, they share meals with family and friends and give charity to those in need. 

In larger cities like Toronto, Mississauga, Montreal, Vancouver, and others, there are often large community gatherings and festivals organized by Islamic centers and mosques. These events typically include food, entertainment, and activities for children.

Time for Eid ul Fitr 2024 Prayers in Canada

Salat-ul-Eid is either a sunnah wajib (required) or fard kifaya (obligatory) act of worship. It should be performed according to the school of thought you follow.  This prayer is usually prayed anytime after sunrise till noon, other than the time of Zawaal. 

Zawaal is the time in which the sun has reached its zenith, its highest point in the sky.

Most importantly, this prayer is offered in the congregation after the sermon held by the Imam of the area. 

The timing can vary depending on the location. Every city and every community follow different times to offer this salaat. The Imams announce the time of the salat-ul-Eid just a day before the Eid. So you should contact the Muslim community center in your area to learn about the timings of the prayer.

Is Eid ul Fitr 2024 in Canada a Public Holiday?

As we all know, Canada is a non-Muslim nation thus it does not offer any public holiday on Eid-ul-Fitr or Eid-ul-Adha. However, the organizations, the Muslims working for do offer holidays to their Muslim employees. 

Moreover, Muslims often alter their work timings or take off to celebrate the eid festivities with their loved ones.

How Muslims Celebrate Eid in Canada?

During the evening of the 29th Ramadan, the moon sighting organization gathers to search for the new moon. The new moon signifies the end of the ongoing lunar month and the start of the new lunar month. 

Once the new moon is sighted it confirms the arrival of the eid. However, if the new moon is not sighted Muslims fast for a day more completing 30 days of Ramadan. 

A day before Eid the celebrations and Eid shopping are geared to the next level. In the early hours of Eid morning, Muslims across Canada wake up before dawn and pay the Fitrana and then offer the special Eid prayer known as Salat al-Eid. 

Salat ul Eid is offered in community gatherings other than local mosques. Community centers host this prayer. Muslim men and women gather in the congregation to perform this important ritual. A meal or snacks are also hosted by the organization after the prayer. 

After the prayers, families return home or gather at the homes of relatives and friends to enjoy a festive breakfast, often consisting of traditional foods and sweets. Now comes the time when the families come together, exchange gifts, and express gratitude for the blessings of Ramadan.

Throughout the day, Muslims visit the homes of relatives and friends to exchange greetings and well wishes. It is common for people to dress in their finest clothes, often new outfits purchased specifically for the occasion, and to adorn their homes with decorations and lights.

Concept of Zakat ul Fitr 

Zakat ul Fitr also known as Fitrana is an important aspect of Eid ul-Fitr celebrations. It is a type of charity given to deserving Muslims. This charity is also known as a charitable donation of food. It is compulsory for every rich and poor, free or slave, old or young to pay fitrana in the form of specific amount of money or food to those in need before the Eid prayers. Zakat ul Fitr is paid to ensure everyone in the community can participate in the festivities.

How much Zakat ul Fitrana Should be Paid on Eid ul Fitr 2024 in Canada?

In 2024, in Canada, the Fitrana amount is about $12 for each able-bodied Muslim. It is based on giving about 5 pounds of certain foods like wheat, barley, rice, flour, or dates. But instead of giving the actual food, people can give money, which is typically around $12 per person. This money goes to help those who may not have enough to celebrate Eid and enjoy the festivities. So, for 2024, the suggested amount for Fitrana in North America or Canada is $12 per person.

What Else to Expect on Eid ul Fitr in Canada?

On Eid ul-Fitr in Canada, you can expect various other activities and traditions like:

• Eid markets and decoration 
• Community gatherings and family events 
• Eid festivals
• Charitable events 

Overall, Eid ul-Fitr in Canada is a joyous occasion filled with celebrations. In addition to traditional practices, many Muslim communities in Canada also organize larger Eid events, such as community meals, bazaars, and cultural performances. These events provide opportunities for Muslims from diverse backgrounds to come together and celebrate their shared faith and culture.

In conclusion, Eid ul-Fitr 2024 in Canada will be the time of joy, unity, and generosity for Muslims across the country like every year. It is a cherished occasion where families, friends, and communities come together to celebrate the blessings of Ramadan and the spirit of Eid ul-Fitr.