Eid Expo 2017, held on June 25 at the McCormick Place, drew thousands of people from Chicago’s large and diverse Muslim community for a day that began with Eid prayers, and continued with delectable foods, exciting activities, and family fun.
There were two timings for Eid salah, the first of which was led by Dr. Abdul Hakim (Sherman) Jackson. Dr. Jackson, an American scholar, is the King Faisal Chair in Islamic Thought and Culture and Professor of Religion and American Studies and Ethnicity at the University of Southern California.
The second salah was led by Dr. Mohammed Kaiseruddin, who is a co-founder and former Chair of CIOGC. He currently serves as an Ex-Officio Board member for CIOGC, the Vice Chair of the Downtown Islamic Center, and the Chair of the Board of Trustees of the IMAN Fund. Dr. Kaiseruddin has previously served as the President of the Muslim Community Center (MCC) and has served the Chicago Muslim community in various other capacities for the past 40 years.
True to its theme, the Eid Expo invited Chicagoland Muslims to ‘come for the prayer and stay for the fun.’ Families took advantage of the bouncy houses, a rock climbing wall, a maze, and a photo booth. In the true spirit of Eid traditions, there was also a henna artist on hand to add to the festivities.
After Ramadan, the month of fasting, the Muslim community celebrated Eid with a variety of foods catered to different ethnic backgrounds. From biryani, to falafel, to burgers and hot dogs, there were many options for attendees of all ages to fulfill their Eid appetites.
CIOGC, Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America (IFANCA®), and the American Pan-Islamic Community Council (APICC), thank everyone who came out to celebrate Eid with the Chicagoland Muslim community. We extend a special thank you to the volunteers who help in making the 2017 Eid Expo a great success for those Muslim families who participated in the celebration.
Some reflections from volunteers and attendees:
“This was my second time volunteering at the Eid Expo hosted by CIOGC. It was a thrilling experience to be a part of such a great group of people who were as willing to give back to the community as I was.” – Warda Khan
“I’m so glad I had an opportunity to volunteer at the Eid Expo this year. Seeing kids laughing and playing make me feel so happy and blessed.” – Almothana Alhamoud
“Alhamdulillah, volunteering at the Eid Expo was an endearing experience that allows us to serve the greater Muslim community of Chicago and beyond. Volunteering at the Eid Expo to assist others on such a special occasion and holy day was the best way to wrap up Ramadan 2017.” – Abdul Qulam
See photos from the Eid Expo! (courtesy of IFANCA®)