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This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.

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Muslims in Southern California — and around the world — celebrate end of Ramadan

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Like millions of people around the world, Muslims in Southern California are celebrating the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and reflection.

One of the largest events in the region wrapped up early Sunday morning at Anaheim's Angel Stadium, where as many as 15,000 people were expected at the annual Eid prayer.

Ramadan, when observant Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, began May 26. It culminates this weekend with Eid al-Fitr, when families customarily gather for prayer followed by food and other festivities.

Issa Edah, who helped organize the Anaheim event, spoke to our media partner, NBC4.
 
"We are peaceful people, and we've all come out here to pray. We have a lot of inter-faith partners that are joining us to celebrate," he said. 

Last week, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) issued a statement urging mosques and other event organizers to step up security measures at Eid celebrations this weekend.

As a safety precaution, the Angel Stadium event, which is usually held in the parking lot, was instead held on the baseball field. There was also a visible police presence.

The Islamic Center of Southern California is hosting an Eid celebration in Pasadena and the New Horizon school in L.A.'s Koreatown neighborhood is also hosting a Sunday morning celebration.

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