International Shia News Agency

Largest Muslim festival to take place in the US

SHAFAQNA - MuslimFest celebrates the best in Muslim arts and entertainment. The event features over 50 local and international artists who showcase their talent in various areas. Concerts featuring popular Muslim artists, comedy shows, a multicultural bazaar, and a kids carnival constitute some of the fun things one can expect at MuslimFest.

This year, the festival will begin on Friday August 31st and will run until Sunday evening, August 2nd.

“MuslimFest returns to Mississauga Celebration Square in its 14th year and will attract 25,000 visitors and welcomes everyone,” Sana Khawaja, Media Relations Officer of MuslimFest, told OnIslam.net.

“The essential role of art, based in traditional and contemporary interpretation of faith, is prevalent throughout the festival, and the event will showcase entertainment that is hundreds of years old but also retains a lineup of new performers ready to become household names.”

“It is this cultural fusion that sets MuslimFest apart and enjoyed by attendees of all backgrounds and age groups.”

The festival features artists, concerts, stand-up comedy shows, workshops, films and documentaries and has drawn praise from politicians and civic leaders across the region for showcasing the province’s diversity and promoting understanding among citizens.

“MuslimFest unofficially begins on Friday, July 31st with the first ever Canadian premier of American Sharia, a movie directed, produced and starring Omar Regan,” said Sana Khawaja.

“The evening will also include an Art Exhibition showcasing inspirational pieces on why faith matters and the Talent Performance segment allows new artist to demonstrate their skills.”

“Friday’s itinerary aims to stimulate discussion regarding Muslim identity in entertainment and have local performers recognized by their community.”

Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Mississauga is Canada’s 6th largest city and is part of the Greater Toronto Area that has a population of over 6 million people.

Islam the fastest growing religion in Canada

Muslims are the fastest growing religious community in Canada, according to the country’s statistical agency, Statistics Canada.

Canada’s Muslim population increased by 82 percent over the past decade – from about 579,000 in 2001 to more than 1 million in 2011. Muslims represent 3.2 percent of Canada’s total population.

Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world and has been ranked the best place to live in a recent report on urban safety published by the Economist. The city has recently excelled as the host of the recently concluded Pan American games.

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