As Muslims around the world bid Ramadan farewell, they also prepare for Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of the Muslim holy month.
What is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr means ‘festival of breaking the fast’ and marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.
Traditionally, Eid is celebrated for three days as an official holiday in all Muslim-majority countries. However, the number of holiday days varies by country. Like Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr begins with the first sighting of the new moon, so usually Muslims have to wait until the night before Eid to verify its date.
How do Muslims celebrate Eid?
Muslims across the world begin Eid celebrations by taking part in communal dawn prayers, followed by a short sermon. While in some countries the prayers take place in mosques or large halls, in many countries it is also held in the open.
People congratulate one another as they head home after Eid prayers. They spend the day visiting relatives and neighbours and accepting sweets as they move around from house to house. Children, dressed in new clothes, are offered gifts and money to celebrate the joyous occasion.
This is preceded by the giving of alms to the poor, or zakat, which is one of the five pillars of Islam.
It is common for the capitals of Muslim-majority countries to decorate their streets with festive lights and hold carnivals to commemorate the end of the holy month.
Each country has traditional desserts and sweets that are prepared before Eid or on the morning of the first day. These foods range from special biscuits and bread to cakes and puddings.
‘Eid Mubarak (Blessed Eid)’ or ‘Eid sa’id (Happy Eid)’ to our colleagues who are celebrating.