South Brunswick Park Hosts 5,000 For Eid Festival

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — The Islamic Society of Central Jersey, along with Muslims around the world, celebrated the conclusion of the month of fasting or Ramadan this past Sunday. To celebrate Eid al-Fitr, or the breaking of the fast, more than 5,000 people congregated Sunday at Rowland Park in South Brunswick.

Special guests who attended included Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ12) and New Jersey Democratic gubernatorial candidate Phil Murphy. Murphy wished the crowd “Eid Mubarak,” which is the traditional holiday greeting meaning have a "Blessed Eid."

The prayer services were led by Imam Hamad Chebli, the religious leader at Islamic Society of Central Jersey and other Muslim religious leaders.

The people in attendance were of diverse ethnicities, dressed in colorful new clothes, many in culturally traditional outfits. People were happy to see one another, they greeted each other with smiles and hugs, wishing each other “Eid Mubarak” or “Happy Eid.”

The festival included bouncy rides, an obstacle course, children’s games, balloon and face painting, henna art, cotton candy, popcorn, ice cream, juice and smoothies and numerous food vendors. Prior to the Eid prayers, everyone is obligated to pay charity to the poor or needy, called Zakat al-Fitr, as an act of thankfulness to God and to make sure those that are in need are provided for and can celebrate the holiday along with everyone else.

After prayers, the Eid holiday is celebrated by spending time with family and friends, feasting on delicious food especially sweets, giving money or gifts, especially to children and by reaching out to family and friends and sending well wishes for the holiday.

- Photo and information credited to Azra Baig, South Brunswick Board of Education member