Prophet's Birthday in Canada

Many Muslims in Canada celebrate the Prophet Muhammad's birth and life or mourn his death on Eid Milad ul-Nabi (Mawlid,Milad-un-Nabi). The date occurs during the Islamic month of Rabi' al-awwal. Some Muslims mark this occasion by fasting or with parades, special prayers or conferences.

Some Muslim communities organize readings about the life of the Prophet Muhammed.

©iStockphoto.com/Fouad Brigui

Abstract

Many Muslims in Canada celebrate the Prophet Muhammad's birth and life or mourn his death on Eid Milad ul-Nabi (Mawlid,Milad-un-Nabi). The date occurs during the Islamic month of Rabi' al-awwal. Some Muslims mark this occasion by fasting or with parades, special prayers or conferences.

What do people do?

Many Muslims in Canada may mark Eid Milad ul-Nabi by fasting during daylight hours or saying special prayers. Some communities organize parades, lectures or readings of poems on Muhammad's life and work.

Many people believe that it is important to tell the story of Muhammad's life to children. Children often play an important part in the celebrations. Many mosques organize Eid Milad ul-Nabi celebrations that include sermons, prayers and a communal meal. The rooms used during the celebrations may be decorated with banners or modest flower arrangements.

Public life

Eid Milad ul-Nabi is not a national public holiday in Canada. However, some Muslim businesses and organizations may be closed for part or all of the day or offer a reduced level of service. Parades may cause some local disruption to traffic, particularly in Toronto.

About Prophet's Birthday in other countries

Prophet's Birthday Observances

Other holidays in January 2013 in Canada

• New Year's Day ―Tuesday, January 1, 2013
• Day After New Year’s Day ―Wednesday, January 2, 2013
• Epiphany ―Sunday, January 6, 2013
• Orthodox Christmas Day ―Monday, January 7, 2013
• Orthodox New Year ―Monday, January 14, 2013
• Tu B'Shevat (Arbor Day) ―Saturday, January 26, 2013