Muslim community in Metro Vancouver marks end of Ramadan with Eid celebrations

Muslims gathered across the Lower Mainland on Friday to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the holiday that marks the end of Ramadan.

Large celebrations were held at B.C. Place in Vancouver and elsewhere in the region.

"Eid, as I like to put it,is essentially Christmas for the Muslims," said Hope Adana, who was attending prayer in Surrey, south of Vancouver,on Friday. "It's giving gifts and spending time with familyas many wouldassociatewith Christmas".

Warta Ferbouz, who is from Bangladesh, said being around Muslims at B.C. Place Friday was a "blessing."

"It's a moment for us to enjoy ourreligion and feeling the same vibe with all the Muslims around here," she said.

Eid al-Fitris being celebrated around the world starting Friday.

The three-day holiday marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan,when devout Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset