For Muslims, joyous celebrations and lavish meals mark the end of Ramadan

Muslims everywhere on Thursday were marking the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan. The holiday - known as Eid al-Fitr - is considered one of the most festive and joyous occasions in the Muslim calendar. Eid is marked with prayer, family gatherings and lavish meals.

“This is the equivalent to Christmas,” said Mohammed Fayyaz, a former president and council leader at the Islamic Society of Greater Harrisburg in Steelton. “This is the most celebrated event.”

Unlike last year, when Ramadan was observed under rigorous coronavirus pandemic mitigation measures, Muslim communities have been enjoying a little more flexibility as they gather with friends and families - given the increasing number of people who have been vaccinated.

“We are grateful to God Almighty that He gave us the opportunity to get back to our places of worship and perform prayers,” Fayyaz said. “It was an amazing experience being in the mosque and performing prayers and meeting with the community.”

Last year, Ramadan and Eid were observed under rigorous pandemic protocol. Fayyaz said that even though some of those measure have been relaxed, mosque officials still asked congregants to keep 6 feet apart and use hand sanitizer. The mosque also took the temperatures of people prior to entering.

“When we get together for these religious services the community gets together and gets stronger and the bond of brotherhood gets stronger,” he said.