The Youth Dinner Event is a vibrant family celebration hosted annually by the Greater Cincinnati Islamic Association (GCIA) to honor and celebrate the Muslim holidays, particularly Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Traditionally, the event is held on the first weekend following these holidays, either indoors at the mosque or outdoors in a local park. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the social distancing measures that followed, some events from 2020-2021 were canceled or held virtually.

The 7th edition of the Youth Dinner Event took place on Saturday, July 24, 2021, at the newly established Roselawn Mosque, marking the first youth event held at this new location. Prior to this, the event had been celebrated at several other locations:

• 3 editions were held indoors at the Clifton Mosque.
• 3 editions took place outdoors at Koenig Park, Reading, Ohio.
• 1 edition was held virtually via Zoom.

Since the 7th edition, two additional youth dinner events have been celebrated at the Roselawn Mosque, bringing the total number of events held there to three.

A Time of Joy and Celebration

The Youth Dinner Event is a joyous occasion for the entire community, centered around a delicious feast of traditional African and Muslim dishes, sweet treats, and homemade beverages. Children are delighted with gifts, educational games, and exciting quizzes that highlight both Islamic and African cultures. These activities are designed to be fun, foster a sense of community, and encourage lasting bonds among attendees. Prizes are awarded for participation, making it an engaging experience for all.

About the Youth Event

The Youth Dinner Event provides an opportunity for attendees to enjoy traditional African and Muslim cuisine, along with sweets and homemade drinks. While the event is a family affair open to both parents and children, its primary focus is on the youth, particularly those born and raised in the United States. The aim is to deepen their understanding of Islamic holidays and help them connect with their African roots, particularly their Pulaar/Fulbe heritage.

In earlier editions, the event was primarily a dinner party for children, complete with gift distributions. However, as the event evolved, it expanded to include additional activities, such as honoring high school graduates, which often coincides with Eid al-Adha celebrations.

Why Call It the Youth Event?

Though the Youth Dinner remains at the heart of the celebration, the event’s name reflects its focus on engaging young members of the community. It is designed to cultivate an awareness of Islamic traditions and heritage among the youth, especially those of African descent, while also fostering a stronger sense of community. Over time, the event has grown to include a wide array of activities that provide entertainment, education, and connection for both young attendees and their families.