'It is very uplifting': Record-breaking attendance for Eid prayers in Winnipeg

About 10,000 people gathered at the RBC Convention Centre Sunday morning for Eid prayers, the largest turnout for the event in Winnipeg's history.

Last year about 7,000 people came out for the major Muslim holiday which marks the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan.

"I have been coming to this event for over a decade now and I have never seen it this large. It is very uplifting to be with so many people in one place," said Idris Elbakri, a spokesperson Manitoba Islamic Association.

Elbakri said the Muslim community is growing very rapidly and mosque attendance is increasing, but he added that Eid fell on a Sunday also helped with attendance numbers.

The community of Muslims has also changed, he added.

"It's uplifting, we enjoy it and it's very multicultural. We have people from all over the globe," he said.

Following the prayers, people celebrate with family, friends and food.

"It's a time for holiday, for feasting, exchanging gifts, visiting each other and enjoying the blessings of community and family," Elbakri said.

Eid goes for three days, but Elbakri said anyone is invited to the Eid Festival, which will include a feast and fireworks on July 8 at the Winnipeg Grand Mosque.