Friends of Airdrie and Coatbridge Islamic Centre (FACIC) and North Lanarkshire Muslim Women's Alliance were "absolutely thrilled" to hold their first in-person public event in more than two years.
Due to the COVID pandemic, the groups had been unable to organise their popular annual community open day gatherings at the Islamic Centre.
However, around 800 people joined staff and volunteers from both organisations for a fun-packed "Eid in the Park" event held in Strathclyde Park.
Guests included 10 North Lanarkshire councillors and representatives from Voluntary Action North Lanarkshire, the NHS and social work services.
There were multiple stalls on display under beautifully decorated gazebos and visitors got to sample special Biryani and carrot cakes in the tradition of Eid.
Arts and crafts, face painting, henna and boat rides wowed the children and there was also space to play football and cricket.
Dr Irfan Jehangir, FACIC chairman, told Lanarkshire Live : "This was our first face-to-face public event since the start of the pandemic and it was wonderful to once again bring the Lanarkshire community together in style.
"We used to hold an annual open day at the Islamic Centre but moving to Strathclyde Park gave us much more space and around 800 people were in attendance; the response was overwhelming.
"Eid al-Adha is the event to commemorate the great sacrifice offered by the prophet Abraham, which is a common point between the Abrahamic faiths of Christianity, Judaism and Islam.
"Everyone embraced Eid, and the different cultures on display, and were keen to learn more about everything.
"The good weather was like the icing on the cake in what was a truly wonderful day."
Dr Jehangir added: "FACIC and North Lanarkshire Muslim Women's Alliance would like to send a big thanks to everyone who made 'Eid in the Park' such a special event.
"Special appreciation goes to all of our partners from the council who were such a brilliant team and helped make every activity seem so easy to organise and take part in.
"Teamwork really does make the dream work and we've been incredibly touched by the heart-warming messages our teams have received in person and via social media.
"FACIC intends to continue organising community events and activities with a view to bringing together the various cultures and communities that have made Lanarkshire their home and helped build stronger relationships, boosting the social fabric of our society."
Head here to find out more information on FACIC and here for further details on North Lanarkshire Muslim Women's Alliance.
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