Muslims across Canada are observing a major annual event this week.

Eid al-Asha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic calendar, and it changes from year to year in the Gregorian calendar, which is used in North America.

This year, Eid al-Adha began on the evening of August 11 and continues until August 15.

It marks Ibrahim's (Abraham's) willingness to sacrifice his son to God.

B.C. premier John Horgan issued the following statement this morning:

"Today we join Muslim communities in British Columbia and around the world to mark the beginning of Eid al-Adha, the Feast of the Sacrifice.

"Eid al-Adha is one of the holiest celebrations in Islam and is a time to reflect on helping others and making the world a better place. Families and friends will gather to feast, exchange gifts and well wishes and provide food to less fortunate people.

"On Eid al-Adha, and every day, we must come together in unity to lift up those who need it most.

"To everyone observing Eid al-Adha, I wish you a wonderful celebration.

"Eid Mubarak!"

This statement came two days after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau extended his best wishes in the following message to Canadian Muslims:

“Today, Muslims in Canada and around the world mark the end of the Hajj and celebrate Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice.

“Eid al-Adha is a time for families and loved ones to come together to pray, share a meal, and celebrate life’s blessings.

“It is also a chance to reflect on values like community service, compassion, and generosity. Whether supporting a local charity or being there for neighbours in need, Muslim Canadians show us the best of those values all year round.

“Today, let’s celebrate Canada’s Muslim communities, and the many contributions they make to shape our country for the better.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish all those celebrating a wonderful Eid al-Adha.

“Eid Mubarak!”

There were about 90,000 Muslims in Metro Vancouver in 2017, according to the Muslim Association of Canada.

Surrey, Vancouver, Burnaby, and North Vancouver was home to two-thirds of all Muslims in the Lower Mainland that year.