This year’s Eid in the Open celebration is expected to attract around 5,000 people. The event, organised by Newcastle Central Mosque will be held at the Trampoline Park and Gym in Fenham.
Eid ul Fitr will be celebrated by Muslims all around the world. It marks the end of Ramadan, a month-long sacrifice when Muslims abstain from food and drink during daylight.
The celebration of Eid ul Fitr also signals the first day in the month of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar.
During the festival, Muslims spend the day celebrating with friends, family and neighbours, enjoying feasts and giving gifts. As important as charity is for Ramadan, it is also part of Eid u Fitr where Muslims donate food to the poor.
On the day of Eid, Muslims begin the morning with prayers and sermons. In Newcastle, many Muslims will be praying at Eid in the Open which will take place either on Friday 15 June or Saturday 16 June. In Islam, such events are marked by the lunar calendar and is confirmed when the new moon is sighted.
Eid in the Open will be attended by the Lord Mayor of Newcastle Cllr David Down, Cllr Habib Rahman and Police and Crime Commissioner Vera Baird, who will be speaking at the event.
Cllr Habib Rahman, Cabinet Member for Communities said: “Eid ul Fitr is a very important day for Muslims in Newcastle and around the world. It’s a joyous day that will be celebrated in our communities by people from many different nationalities.
“Newcastle has long had a tradition of celebrating festivals and occasions from different cultures and religions; we are a city built on diversity. Eid highlights some of the traditions and values common to our great city, values such as unity, community spirit and helping the needy.
“I hope everyone celebrating Eid has the chance to enjoy this special day with their nearest and dearest. And I wish everyone a happy Eid Mubarak.”