Ahmed and Arreba sold chocolate balls and fruit salad to support Gaza. Mom Aneeza Shabbir stands beside them.
On Wednesday, April 10, the Muslim community in Skellefteå came together to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The festivities took place at Degerbyhallen in the western part of town, with a large crowd gathering for this joyous occasion.
Degerbyhallen's spacious layout, with its high ceilings and ample room, proved ideal for the event. The atmosphere crackled with joyous energy as people, dressed in their finest attire, mingled and celebrated with happy faces all around.
The celebration began with separate gatherings for men and women for the traditional Eid prayer. Two imams led the prayers, and one expressed surprise and delight at the high turnout.
– Understanding the religious concept behind the prayer is key, he explained.
Following the prayer, the festivities shifted to activities for children. A bouncy castle, candy bags, and games kept the younger attendees entertained. Additionally, a sale of sweets and food provided delicious treats for everyone.
Proceeds go to Gaza.
"Eid al-Fitr" means that the month-long fast of Ramadan is over. Food is a part of the celebration.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr lockade flera hundra personer.
Eid al-fitr lockade flera hundra personer.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Cakes!
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Eid al-fitr attracted several hundred people.
Dua Fatima and her family attended.
The Islamic Cultural Center in Skellefteå, the event's main organizer, is thrilled with the large turnout, according to contact person Lahcene Chellig:
– It's fantastic to see so many people celebrating here, he says.
Chellig sees this as a reflection of Skellefteå's growth, with new businesses and an influx of residents. He also highlights the significance of religious gatherings:
–It's crucial for our faith to come together.
Chellig describes the celebratory atmosphere as "an indescribable feeling," filled with pride for their Muslim identity and the joy of celebrating together.