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Eid al-Fitr is a three-day festival bursting with colour and cheer to mark the end of Ramadan. Commonly referred to as Eid, it marks the end of the holy month of fasting for Muslims worldwide. In Canada, one of the most multicultural countries in the world, Eid blends Muslim traditions with local flair. Discover how Canadian Muslims celebrate the joys of Eid, its traditions, and how to join the festivities!
Eid al-Fitr is an important holiday for the Muslim community in Canada.
To understand Eid, we examine what the word means. “Eid”, by itself, means “festival” in Arabic. That is why Eid by itself is not a holiday. There are two holidays that people celebrate, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
The holiday after Ramadan is known as Eid al-Fitr or the “Festival of Breaking Fast”. Another name for it is Lesser Eid because it generally has smaller celebrations than “Greater Eid”. Most people refer to Greater Eid as Eid al-Adha, the biggest Muslim holiday, roughly two months after Eid al-Fitr.
The end of Ramadan gives way to Eid al-Fitr. During the 30 days of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Once Ramadan is over, Muslims celebrate with a feast on the day of Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking Fast.
Both Eids last three days, but the first day has the biggest celebrations. In Canada, most families don’t celebrate for three days and only celebrate on the first day. Eid al-Fitr is a family holiday when people invite friends and family to share the feast.
The date changes as Eid and other Muslim holidays follow the Islamic Lunar Calendar (also known as the Hijri Calendar). The Islamic Calendar looks at the moon to determine what day it is. Because of this, Eid is on a different day of the Gregorian Calendar each year.
Looking at the Hijri Calendar, Eid al-Fitr begins on the 1st day of Shawwal, the tenth Islamic month. However, the exact date is subject to the sighting of the moon of Shawwal. In Canada, Eid al-Fitr celebrations start on the evening of March 30, 2025.
The holiday is not a national public holiday in Canada. However, many Islamic businesses and organizations alter their hours during Eid al-Fitr.
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Due to Canada’s cooler climate, most Eid parties take place indoors. This doesn’t stop the celebrations from being just as grand. Eid parties mark the end of Ramadan with marvelous decorations and brilliant light displays. Not to mention all the traditional dishes such as biryani, baklava, and other delicious treats! Eid would not be the same without its over-the-top food preparations. Remember, your guests did fast for 30 days.
People who celebrate Eid may not have close relatives who live in Canada. So, it is a common practice to invite friends and neighbours to Eid parties instead. This welcoming spirit fosters a strong sense of community and togetherness.
Eid in Canada still follows many original Eid traditions. One such tradition is Zakat al-Fitr, or “Charity of Breaking the Fast” in Arabic. Zakat al-Fitr requires financially able Muslims to give charity to someone in need at the end of Ramadan. “Zakat”, or charity, is obligatory for every Muslim before the morning Eid prayers that signal the start of Eid.
During Eid al-Fitr, many Muslims organize events and activities that benefit the community, often with the help of volunteers. Many charitable organizations rely on volunteers to achieve their objectives. In addition to being an important part of Eid, volunteering benefits newcomers who want to strengthen ties to the local community.
Another Eid tradition found across the world is Eidi. Eidi, also known as Salami, is a type of gift that is given only on Eid. According to tradition, older relatives or family friends give Eidi to children at the beginning of Eid. While Eidi can be anything, it is mostly given as paper money, so children can spend it wherever they like.
With Ramadan drawing to a close and the start of the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, Eid Mubarak wishes to all!
Canadians look forward to festivals and these 2024 summer festivals are worth checking out! Canada is home to some of the biggest and grandest festivals out there. New to Canada? Explore some of its most thrilling festivals. From rodeos to music to fireworks, these 2024 summer festivals are sure to please!
The Festival International de Jazz de Montréal has been thrilling music lovers since its first festival in 1980. It takes place in the heart of downtown Montreal, in the Quartier des Spectacles. In addition to jazz, this festival offers more than 350 shows and more than two-thirds are free. Check out some of the headliners at the 44th edition of the jazzfest!
Calgary, and Western Canada in general, has a long farming history. And, most aspects of people’s lives revolved around running the family farm before Canada became a country. Specifically, cattle ranches were the most common type of farm present around Calgary and most of Alberta. So to embrace its modest origins, Calgary hosts a ten-day summer festival each year known as the Calgary Stampede.
The Calgary Stampede is the biggest rodeo event in Canada and among the top rodeos in North America. And, the main attraction is the tournament-style rodeo events.
It also has many other fun activities. Experience the Calgary Stampede PowWow that highlights the diversity of First Nations dancing, singing, and drumming. Or, visit the Stage of Wonders and Le Cirque de la Nuit’s STARSLINGERS. This summer festival provides a range of shows, music, food and drink, and plenty of attractions that the whole family will enjoy.
Discover what the Calgary Stampede has to offer this summer!
The Honda Celebration of Light is the biggest fireworks competition in the world. It is also the longest-running offshore fireworks competition in the world. In 2024, three countries will compete: Portugal (July 20), Malaysia (July 24), and United Kingdom (July 27). The fireworks take place over English Bay in Vancouver, British Columbia. Morton Park, which is close, will host live music events, food trucks, and activities for everyone.
For more details about this spectacular summer festival, visit the festival guide.
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It is only fitting that Canada’s largest festival takes place in Toronto, its largest city. Caribana is North America’s largest carnival. Also known as the Toronto Caribbean Carnival this event celebrates Caribbean culture. The highly-anticipated carnival represents almost all Caribbean cultures and gets its unique theme from all Caribbean Islands.
The festival is now officially known as Toronto Caribbean Carnival. Many know the festival as, “Caribana”, which is what you get when you mix the words, “Caribbean”, and “Canada”. At this summer festival, you’ll discover anything and everything Caribbean. From Caribbean music to food, the carnival has something for everyone. After all, it is the largest carnival in North America.
Some other things you can expect are people in Caribbean clothing and costumes, Caribbean dances, and other traditions found in the Caribbean Islands. To learn more, check out the Caribana Toronto guide.
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Canada has achieved what so many countries have failed to in the past. That achievement is building a culturally accepting environment where people from different backgrounds can live together peacefully. To celebrate this achievement, Edmonton hosts the largest celebration of multiculturalism in the world.
The Edmonton Heritage Festival is a fun and light-hearted three-day event that celebrates the beautiful cultures in our country. The festival represents over 60 nations that each set up outdoor pavilions at Edmonton Exhibition Lands and Borden Parks. From traditional live music to iconic cultural foods, the Edmonton Heritage Festival has something for everyone. It is a great way to have some fun while also learning about the wonderful cultures that make up Canada.
Summer is about relaxing, spending time with loved ones, and having fun! Whether you attend a large summer festival or take a walk in the park, make sure to enjoy the wonderful events that Canada has to offer.
These are just some of the many summer festivals taking place in 2024. Each part of Canada has its unique way of celebrating the summer. To search for other summer festivals in 2024, check out some of these events and celebrations in local communities.
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Father’s Day in Canada is a special occasion that many countries around the world celebrate. This special day honours and recognizes fathers and father figures such as stepfathers and adoptive fathers. Father’s Day is a time to appreciate the contributions, sacrifices, and love that fathers provide to their families. Discover when Father’s Day is, traditions, and activities to ensure a happy celebration!
Father’s Day began as a humble celebration in Spokane, Washington and the first event was celebrated on June 19, 1910. It was initiated by a woman named Sonora Smart Dodd. Today, more than 100 countries including Canada celebrate the day.
Each year we celebrate Father’s Day in Canada on the third Sunday of June. This year it’s on June 16, 2024. The day recognizes the contributions of fathers to their families and society. Because of this, the day is marked by various traditions and activities that bring families together. The day reminds us how important our father figures are, and how they are always ready to handle everyday problems to meet the needs of their family.
Father’s Day is a time to create memories full of love and joy. Here are common traditions in Canada.
The main focus of this day is show our fathers how much we appreciate and value them. A family gathering and meal is the most common tradition on Father’s Day in Canada. Family gatherings show how much we appreciate our dads and it can be a cozy dinner at home or a grand barbecue in the backyard. Gatherings fill the atmosphere with love, laughter, and affection as fathers are with their families and loved ones.
Gift-giving is a beloved tradition to celebrate your father. Traditional gifts include books, clothes, gadgets and tools. However, the best gift is the one that has thought behind it. Your gift should be unique and only you know what the perfect gift is for your father figure. Personalized gifts like homemade cards and custom-made photo albums are a great idea. Also, gifts that reflect your father’s interests and hobbies can be a great choice too. The whole purpose of giving gifts is to make fathers feel appreciated, supported and loved.
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Father’s Day events are a great way to do something fun with your family. No matter where you are in Canada, there is surely an event taking place near you. Not only that, but you can also find events that will be of interest to your father. If your father is a big fan of cars, you can spend the day at a care show. On the other hand, attending a baseball game could be the move if he enjoys sports.
Canada is a vast country full of beautiful landscapes and natural beauty, and this allows for many fun outdoor activities to celebrate the day.
Fishing is a popular dad activity. Fathers and their children can spend the day at a river, lake or coastal area trying to catch fish. It can be a relaxing and healthy activity for families and you could potentially catch your dinner! Many provinces such as Ontario allow people to fish for free without a basic fishing license during Father’s Day weekend.
Families can head to walking trails and provincial parks to enjoy a day in nature with their dads. Families can also go hiking and camping to explore Canada’s stunning beauty and wilderness areas.
These activities offer an opportunity to bond with nature and family while also providing fresh air and healthy exercise.
Canada is a multicultural country with diverse cultures from all around the world. Because of this diversity, Canada is home to many unique customs and traditions for this special day. For example, families of Asian and African descent enjoy special feasts for their fathers. Likewise, many families of European ancestry tend to enjoy picnics and outdoor activities with their fathers. On the other hand, First Nations communities like to perform traditional ceremonies like storytelling and honouring the roles of fathers.
Families can watch a game together as it is a great way to celebrate the day. Families gather to watch their favourite sports team on TV, whether it’s the Stanley Cup, baseball, or cricket.
If your father loves history and science, a visit to a museum can be a great activity. Not only is visiting a museum fun, but it is also an educational experience.
Family movie nights are fun and they are also a great happy Dad’s Day activity. A nice family film can be an enjoyable activity for the whole family, whether it be at home or a movie theatre.
Taking your dad out to a family dinner at a nice restaurant offers great food and a way to bond as a family. As a bonus, many restaurants in Canada provide special Happy Father’s Day menus and deals.
Father’s Day in Canada is special. It is all about celebrating and honouring fathers for the roles they play in families and communities. Whether through giving gifts, planning fun outdoor activities, or spending time together, there are many ways to make your father figures feel special. These activities and traditions help create lasting memories and show fathers how much they mean to us. Happy Father’s Day to all the special dads who make the day worth celebrating!
In the excitement of getting your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), it’s vital to consider the first things to do after landing in Canada. It’s now time for the next step along your immigration journey. Your Canadian journey begins when you complete all the paperwork, pack your belongings, and say your goodbyes. The first steps you take upon your arrival in Canada will set the course for a smooth settlement process. Discover the vital steps to building your life in Canada!
Knowing what to expect when you land will contribute to a smooth experience and reduce stress.
One of the first people you will meet at your arrival point in Canada will be a friendly Canadian customs agent. This is when the customs agent will ask you about the goods you carry with you, goods to follow, and landing certificates such as your COPR.
You’ll also meet other officials from Immigration Services. They will ask you to show your passport and visa papers. Immigration agents will give you application forms to apply for documents such as your:
Applying for these documents within the first couple of weeks after you land in Canada is important. You will need a SIN card to work in Canada, and a health care card to get provincial healthcare coverage.
Your PR card is proof of your Canadian permanent resident status. You will need this card whenever you leave Canada and want to re-enter. The processing time for your PR application can vary, and it can take up to two months to receive your PR card. You can check processing times here.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will mail you a wallet-sized plastic PR Card. If you change your mailing address before receiving your PR Card, notify IRCC of your change of address. You can also check the status of your application.
Once you decide to immigrate, it’s time to look ahead confidently. You’ve done so much to prepare for Canada, so trust yourself, enjoy the journey, and take these steps when you land in Canada.
It’s important to secure short-term accommodation (a stay of less than 28 days) before you arrive in Canada. While residing in temporary housing, a vital first step is to find accommodation in Canada that will suit your long-term rental needs.
Ideally, you want to find a place that meets your needs and is relatively close to your employer. If you’re moving to a large city like Toronto, pay attention to how dispersed it is. Travel time within the Greater Toronto Area can take up to 90 minutes by car or public transit. So, factor in travel time when deciding where to live.
Rentals for Newcomers is a great place to search for the perfect rental in cities across Canada. While it’s good to research the housing market in Canada before you arrive, the best time to search for housing is after you arrive in Canada. This will allow you to visit properties, meet the landlord, and avoid rental scams.
Tip for Newcomers: Having a SIM card and a Canadian phone number makes it easier to contact landlords, schedule viewings, and respond quickly to rental listings.
Apply for your SIN within the first week after you arrive in Canada. Without this nine-digit number, you cannot get a job, apply for government programs and benefits, or access credit. In fact, without it, you are virtually a person without an identity in Canada. There is no cost for you to get your SIN.
Within the first week of your arrival in Canada, apply for a healthcare card to receive free medical coverage in the province or territory where you plan to live. Some provinces, such as British Columbia, have a three-month waiting period before your healthcare coverage takes effect. It’s important to apply for provincial healthcare within your first week to minimize delays in coverage.
If you land in a province with a waiting period, you can buy private insurance to cover you and your family from unexpected healthcare costs. A waiting period applies for permanent residents in British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Yukon, the Northwest Territories, Quebec, and Saskatchewan.
There are many immigrant service agencies across Canada. Settlement agencies provide free services to help you adjust to life in Canada. Some settlement agencies even offer pre-arrival services before you land in Canada. There is a huge advantage to using settlement services before and after your arrival in Canada.
If you have already arrived in Canada, you can search here for free post-arrival services.
Here are some services that you can take advantage of:
Improving or enhancing your English or French language skills is a great idea because it’s critical to newcomer success. Language training may focus on basic English skills only, and may not be enough to help you succeed in the work environment. However, many colleges and industry associations offer higher-level English training and job-specific or occupation-specific language training.
Some organizations may offer a host program. This volunteer-based program matches immigrants with a host who can guide them through their first few months in Canada. Your “host” can help you with questions about the best places to shop locally, find housing, or enroll your children in school.
Immigrating to a new country can be an emotional time. You may feel frustration, regret, and homesickness. Immigrant settlement agencies are there to support you with counselling for you and your family.
Immigrant settlement agencies are also a great first step to help you with your job search. For example, they can help you to:
You can also ask the settlement agency if they offer a mentorship program. Mentoring programs connect you with someone who works in your occupation and can provide information and tips about the profession in Canada. Mentoring can be a great way to help you succeed in the workplace.
Another priority in your first few weeks in Canada is to open a bank account near your home. To open an account, you will need your landed immigrant papers and any other identification you have to prove your place of residence. You can even open a bank account before you arrive in Canada.
Banks provide different types of accounts, including basic savings and chequing accounts. You may need a chequing account in particular because most employers will make a direct deposit to your bank account to pay you.
Over time, you will build a good relationship with your bank and start building your credit history. One way to build credit is to apply for a secured credit card and then a traditional credit card. With a secured credit card, you provide a cash deposit to cover your bills. Paying your bills and loans promptly is important to build a strong Canadian credit history. Your credit history will help you when you want to get a mortgage, buy a home, make a major purchase such as a car, or get a loan to start a business.
One reason people immigrate to Canada is to give their children a better future. That starts with education. Canada guarantees an education to every child between the ages of five and 18. You must enroll your child in school as soon as possible after you arrive in Canada.
The progressive levels in the Canadian education system for children include:
Kindergarten: Children enter the school system in Kindergarten at age five.
Primary or Elementary School: After they complete Kindergarten, they attend primary or elementary school for grades 1 to 7 or 8, depending on the school district.
Secondary or High School: From grade 8 or 9 through to 12, children attend secondary school (high school). Some districts have a junior high level between elementary and high school.
You’ll be off to a great start when you take these vital steps upon your arrival in Canada!