Source: Los Angeles Times

On December 12, 1999, the Los Angeles Times reported that Orange County Muslim leaders are scrambling to find a spot to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the holiday which closes Ramadan. There are an estimated 150,000 Muslims in Orange County and up to 15,000 are expected to attend Eid al-Fitr celebrations in Orange County, but the normal locations for the celebration are all booked. The main reason for the last second efforts is that determining the end of Ramadan depends on the sighting of the new moon, which means that Eid al-Fitr could fall on one of two days. The Islamic Society of Orange County has lobbied in Washington, D.C. through their representatives to open up either El Toro or Tustin Marine bases, which both have hangars large enough to accommodate the event. Special permission needs to be granted in order to open the bases because they are officially closed.