What is Eid Al Fitr and why is it celebrated?

Post by Maariya, Student Experience Ambassador

Eid Al Fitr celebrates the end of the month of Ramadan in which Muslims observe fasting and increased worship. This year, Eid al Fitr is expected to fall on either the 9^th, 10^th, or 11^th of April, depending on when the new moon is sighted. It is a celebration of the end of fasting and thanking God, which is why on the morning of Eid Muslims offer a special Eid prayer.

On the morning of Eid, Muslims begin by taking a shower and dressing in their best clothes. Many families also decorate their houses for the special occasion. Some Muslims may choose to eat breakfast before heading to Eid prayers in the morning and some save the huge celebratory breakfast for after the prayer. Muslims greet each other by saying “Eid Mubarak” which means “Happy/Blessed Eid”. Families and friends also tend to gather on Eid to celebrate the day and exchange gifts. One important factor is that Muslims are not allowed to fast on Eid. Different cultures will prepare an abundance of rich feasts and have different traditions.

In my household we begin the day by showering and dressing up. We then share a small breakfast of Seviyan which is a sweet Vermicelli pudding. Once everyone is ready, we head to the congregational Eid prayer. We often see many friends at the prayer and hug everyone – it’s a lovely celebratory atmosphere. Once back home we start preparing our breakfast. We have stuffed parathas, lamb curry, chicken curry, samosas and spring rolls, as well as lentil curry and Bombay potato curry. We often have enough food to last a few days. After breakfast is when we exchange and open presents. The rest of the day is then spent relaxing or doing a fun activity or having a day out!