One of the most important days in the Islamic calendar, Eid Al-Fitr, was celebrated with great joy at Sammamish Mosque on April 21st. Muslims in the local community gathered Friday morning at the mosque to pray and come together in celebration of the end of Ramadan. 

While most Skyline students were at school last Friday, Muslim students were just three minutes away, celebrating at Sammamish Mosque. Sophmore, Adbdulahi Kedir is among those not going to school on Friday and explains why it’s important to him to attend Eid prayer. 

Kedir says, “Eid Al-Fitr is one of the two holidays we have so it’s super important for me to take full advantage of it. The best part is seeing all my friends here and getting to celebrate with them.” 

The mosque has a special place in Muslim’s hearts, it serves as a place of worship where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to perform their daily prayers. During Eid Al-Fitr, the mosque takes on an even more significant role, as it becomes the hub of celebrations where Muslims come to pray a special Eid prayer known as Salat al-Eid or Eid Salah. 

During the Eid prayer, the imam delivered a powerful sermon that was directed to everyone present, young and old; reminding people of  the importance of continuing good even after Ramadan. It was a message that resonated with everyone present as it reminded them of their shared values and the importance of giving back to their community.

After the prayers, the atmosphere at the mosque transforms into a joyous celebration with people exchanging warm greetings of “Eid Mubarak,” meaning “Blessed Eid,” and embracing each other with hugs and handshakes. The air was filled with laughter, smiles, and the smell of delicious food being shared among families and friends. 

Sammamish mosque went the extra mile to create a festive atmosphere this year, with colorful decorations adorning the walls and balloon arches for people to take photos with friends. Outside of the Mosque, they had goodie bags, a balloon artist, and sweet treats. 

The youth at Sammamish Mosque were actively involved in the Eid celebrations and youth group programs throughout Ramadan. Sammamish youth helped decorate the mosque in preparation for Ramadan and Eid.

Rahma Kedir, a long-time attendee of Sammamish Mosque says “Sammamish [Mosque] has come a long way. I remember when it was just a little house before they renovated it.” The mosque’s expansion and the efforts put into creating a happy atmosphere for Eid this year were appreciated by all. 

The festivities at the Mosque were also an opportunity to educate all people. Many non-Muslims from the community were invited to join festivities not just at Sammamish Mosque but all Mosques in the community.

Eid Al-Fitr at Sammamish Mosque was a memorable event that brought Muslims together to express gratitude, celebrate their faith, and strengthen the bonds of community. The festive spirit of Eid extends beyond the mosque, with communities coming together in parks, recreational centers, and homes.