Posted 2 hours ago
Tue 17 Mar, 2026 12:03 AM
Eid al-Fitr (the festival of breaking the fast) is the Islamic holiday that commemorates the end of Ramadan. The holiday is expected to begin on the evening of March 19th or 20th, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon, and can last for up to 3 days.
How is Eid celebrated?
Muslims will wake up in the early morning, prepare food and get ready to attend Eid prayers. On Eid, just like every day, Muslims will follow the way of Prophet Muhammad, also known as "Sunnah" in Islam. Specific Sunnahs on Eid include:
- Taking a bath or shower
- Wearing one's best clothes and perfume
- Saying "Takbeer" or praising God on the way to Eid prayers
- Taking a different route home from attending Eid prayer
They will hug their family and friends and greet them with "Eid Mubarak", meaning "blessed festival" in Arabic.
Eid traditions vary from country to country, but usually friends and family will gather and spend time together at each other's homes, enjoying sweets and delicious food after Eid prayers in the morning. Children will receive gifts and money, also known as "Eidi".
What is Zakat al-Fitr?
Between sunset on the last day of fasting and before Eid prayer the next morning, Muslims with an income are obligated to give a charitable donation - Zakat al-Fitr. This donation is meant to cover the costs of one's meal.
If you don't celebrate Eid, don't worry. Understanding other people's cultures and traditions is the first step towards bringing everyone together!
