Canadian Muslims set to celebrate Eid Al-Adha

Canadian Muslims are set to celebrate `Eid Al-Adha on Tuesday, July 20, with in-person Eid prayers and family gatherings as the restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic have been easing up across the country.

“After much anticipation, the Muslim Association of Canada (MAC) is pleased to announce that we are bringing the Eidul-Adha celebration in person once again,” said the Muslim Association of Canada (MAC), a national Muslim organization, in a statement.

“We are delighted to be hosting one of the largest Eid events in the GTA, at a new and exclusive venue, Ontario Place. Join us on Tuesday, July 20th, for Eid prayers and family fun. We will have food trucks, loot bags and lots of entertainment for kids. The venue will also have access to boat rentals, basketball & volleyball courts, and lots of fun outdoor activities for all ages.”

Canadian Muslims, as all Muslims throughout the world, have been grappling with the changes in their personal and religious life brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Canadian Muslim COVID-19 Task Force (CMCTF) have put together the following guideline on how to safely celebrate Eid-ul Adha this year:

1) Vaccination Status: Persons are only considered fully vaccinated once 14 days have passed since receiving their second dose

2) Please be more cautious if you or a loved one belongs to one of these risk groups and conditions, as they are considered at high risk of developing severe COVID-19 upon infection.

3) Follow the guidance from your local public health units regarding gathering limits to ensure that your Eid gatherings are safe!

4) We recommend that Eid prayers and gatherings are held outdoors, as it reduces the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

5) Attending Eid Salah: Most Masajid/Mosques should be open for Eid salah regardless of the risk levels and/or vaccination statuses.

6) As we engage in Eid salahs, outdoor gatherings, and other Eid activities, please ensure that physical distancing (2 meters) is maintained with anyone who does not share your household!

7) Masking: Well-fitted masks are recommended for the following scenarios:

- Indoor gatherings and prayers

- Wherever physical distancing is not feasible

- Persons who are partially/not yet vaccinated

- Persons belonging to a high risk group

- Persons who are uncomfortable

Maximize indoor ventilation through:

- Changing your air filter regularly

- installing a HEPA air filtration system

- Keeping doors and windows open

9) Serving food: Serve & eat food outdoors while following food safety measures and practices.