As the holy month of Ramadan concludes, Muslims worldwide are sad to bid the month goodbye but come together to celebrate their efforts in Eid al-Fitr.
This joyous occasion, known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is one of the two major Islamic holidays, the other being Eid al-Adha.
Each Eid represents a period of spiritual renewal following dedicated acts of worship and devotion.
This year Eid al-Fitr is expected to fall on either Sunday 30th March 2025 or Monday 31st March following the sighting of the moon.
This article will share more about Eid-al Fitr including the traditions and prophetic practices Muslims around the world will enjoy.
Understanding Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr marks the conclusion of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.
The festival falls on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month in the Islamic calendar, and its exact date varies each year based on the sighting of the new moon. This is why the date of Eid changes annually, and your friends or colleagues may not always know exactly when it will be.
Eid al-Fitr is distinct from Eid al-Adha, which takes place on the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah (the month of Hajj) during the sacred pilgrimage that every able Muslim is required to perform once in their lifetime. While Eid al-Fitr celebrates the completion of Ramadan, Eid al-Adha commemorates the devotion of Prophet Abraham and his willingness to sacrifice for God.
Sunnahs & Traditions of Eid
The celebration of Eid al-Fitr is rich with traditions and practices rooted in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Key Sunnahs (recommended prophetic practices) and wide cultural practices observed on this day include:
Attending Eid Prayer: The day commences with a special congregational prayer held in mosques or open grounds, emphasising community solidarity. It is a Sunnah to take a different route back home on the return from the Eid prayer.
Wearing New/ Best clothes & smelling good: It is recommended to wear new clothes/ your best clothes as well as performing a ritual ablution.
Visiting Family & Friends and Sharing Meal: Families and friends gather to enjoy traditional dishes, which differ by region but often feature sweets and savoury items.
Sharing Gifts & Glad Tidings: The traditional greeting during Eid al-Fitr is ‘Eid Mubarak’, which means ‘Blessed Eid’. Children, in particular, receive gifts or money, known as “Eidi,” adding to the festive spirit and sharing in the celebration of the day.
Paying Charity: Muslims are obligated to pay Zakat al-Fitr, a form of alms given to those in need before the Eid prayer.
Supporting Muslim Friends and Colleagues During Eid
For those not observing Eid, extending support and understanding to your Muslim friends and colleagues can mean a lot. You can do this by:
Offering Warm Wishes: Greeting with “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) is a simple gesture which many will appreciate (‘Happy Eid’ is also appreciated!)
Acknowledge the Holiday: Recognising that Eid is an important time for Muslims can foster inclusivity. Ask your friends and colleagues about their Eid celebration if it is appropriate to do so and show interest and respect for the celebration.
Eid al-Fitr is a joyful and meaningful celebration that marks the culmination of Ramadan’s spiritual journey.
It is a time of gratitude, unity, and generosity, reinforcing the values of faith, compassion, and community. As Muslims around the world come together to celebrate, it serves as a reminder of the importance of reflection, kindness, and supporting those in need.
To all those celebrating, Eid Mubarak!
Written by Zoia Ali.
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