Eid Mubarak

As we approach the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting, Muslims all around the world will be celebrating the Eid-ul-Fitr festival. Shuja Ahmed, Equality Diversity and Inclusion group, explains what Eid is all about and how Muslims celebrate.

In the UK, Eid-ul–Fitr will fall on 13 or 14 May (subject to moon sighting) and will mark the beginning of a 3-day celebration of food (lots of food!), family and fun. And more food!

What is Eid?

Eid literally means “festival” or “feast” in Arabic. For Muslims, there are two Eid celebrations throughout the year and both mark very special occasions:

Eid-ul-Fitr (Festival of breaking the fast): Eid-ul–Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the month-long fasting, where Muslims are required to fast from before sunrise to sunset each day. Eid-ul–Fitr is the first Eid in the Islamic calendar and is referred to as the “Small Eid” as it last for 3 days.
Eid-ul-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice): Eid-ul–Adha is the second Eid of the year for Muslims. In terms of dates, although Eid-ul–Adha takes place at the end of the Hajj pilgrimage, it is not directly related to the Hajj; it actually commemorates the sacrifice of Prophet Abraham. Eid-ul–Adha takes place in the 12th month of the Islamic Calendar and is referred to as the “Big Eid” as it lasts for 4 days.

How do Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr?

On the day of Eid, Muslims will wear their best or new clothes and attend a special early morning prayer, Eid Salah. After the prayer, Muslims will greet each other with “Eid Mubarak” and with formal embraces (socially distanced embraces!).

Back at home, there are sweet dishes prepared, and gifts are given to children and to those in need. In the Asian community, it is common practice to give money to children instead of gifts (some kids make a killing on Eid!).

Throughout the day, Muslims will visit family and friends – or invite family and friends over – and have specially prepared food at each house. The celebrations continue over 3 days; large feasts with family and friends are spread across this period. Some Muslims also attend events and festivities such as Eid in the Park, fun fairs and kids events.

A time for charity and forgiveness

Although the Eid-ul–Fitr festival is a time of celebration and rejoicing, it is also a time for reflection and charity. Muslims are encouraged to forgive others and seek forgiveness themselves.

Before the early morning Eid prayer, Muslims will provide a charitable donation, known as Fitrana, so that the poor and needy may also benefit on Eid.

Common theme

The celebrations and festivities vary across the world. In many Muslim countries, Eid-ul–Fitr is a national holiday. In the UK, Muslims may request to have the day off to celebrate with family and friends. In some countries, it is common for people to decorate their homes with lights, lanterns and flowers. For all the variety in the festivities, the common theme across the world is plentiful food!

Why does the beginning of Eid vary each year?

The Islamic calendar is based on the Lunar Cycle (phases of the moon) and this is around 2 weeks shorter than the Solar calendar. So Ramadan and Eid will be earlier each year.

Why is the exact date for Eid not known in advance?

As mentioned previously, the Islamic calendar is based on the Lunar Cycle, so each month is based on the appearance of the new moon. Although the general dates for Eid are known in advance, the exact date can only be determined the day before Eid, by the sighting of the new moon. If a new crescent moon is sighted on the 29th day of Ramadan, then it is Eid the following day. If not, then the next day will be a fast and Eid will be the day after.

Can you fast on Eid day?

No, fasting is prohibited on Eid.

Eid Mubarak!