Brooklyn Children’s Museum is gearing up to host its annual Celebrate Eid al-Fitr festival on Sunday, April 14.
Organizers promise a day filled with festivities, cultural immersion and fun activities for all ages — all in commemoration of Eid al-Fitr.
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of dawn-to-dusk fasting. The holiday holds immense cultural and religious significance for Muslims worldwide, symbolizing joy, gratitude, and communal unity. To embrace this spirit, Brooklyn Children’s Museum has curated a vibrant lineup of events encompassing music, dance, art, and culinary delights, ensuring an enriching experience for attendees.
The event is being presented in partnership with the Turkish Cultural Center, The Culture Tree, Bangladesh Institute of Performing Arts, and Council Member Shahana Hanif’s office.
Hanif said this year’s Eid al-Fitr celebration, and the unity it will foster, feel more important than ever.
“This festival embodies the spirit of the diversity of Muslim communities and cultures, offering a wonderful opportunity for families and young ones from across the borough and beyond to come together and learn about the significance of Eid,” Hanif said in a statement. “This year, more than ever, our unity as a community is essential. It’s been an honor collaborating with this vital Brooklyn institution to curate an inclusive and family-centered event.”
In 2021, Hanif was the first Muslim woman elected to the New York City Council, and the first woman chosen to represent Brooklyn’s 39th District, which includes parts of Kensington, Borough Park, Windsor Terrace, Park Slope, Gowanus, Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill and the Columbia Waterfront.
Atiba T. Edwards, president and CEO of the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, echoed Hanif’s sentiments, emphasizing the significance of collaboration with cultural partners to create an inclusive environment.
“We’re thrilled to collaborate with New York City Council Member Shahana Hanif and our amazing cultural partners to present a truly inclusive and engaging Eid al-Fitr celebration, now in its seventh year,” he said in a statement. “Working with such a diverse and dedicated group of organizations is an incredible opportunity, and we look forward to sharing this special day with families from all backgrounds.”
Visitors of all ages will be experience the intricate rhythmic patterns of Indian classical dance, discover the story of Eid at an engaging puppet show, hear Turkish, Kurdish, and Islamic classical music performed by the Wahab Orchestra, and learn Sufi-inspired songs at an interactive drumming circle led by Brother Mustafa.
“I always look forward to engaging with visitors as we explore the diverse traditions of our Muslim neighbors through music, dance, art, and food,” Hanif said. “It’s events like these that truly enrich our city and foster empathy and appreciation.”
Tickets for Celebrate Eid al-Fitr are available for purchase, with general admission priced at $15 — $14 for grandparents — and free entry for children under one year old. Admission grants access to all special programs and museum exhibits.
Celebrate Eid al-Fitr will take place at Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. in Crown Heights, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 14. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit brooklynkids.org/programs/
