Id al-fitr // Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr is often simply called Eid. It celebrates the end of the annual fasting period. The fasting month is called Ramadan and all adult Muslims who can, fast. Those who fast do not eat food from sunrise to sunset. During Ramadan, it is important to think about how we can be kind and good to each other. On Eid, we thank God for giving us the strength to complete the fast. The celebration begins with a ritual communal prayer in the mosque.
On Eid it is customary to be with family and friends. The Eid celebration is a children’s day. Children often receive gifts or money from their families. The gifts are called Eidi. It is customary to dress up in nice clothes. Many people decorate their hands with henna.
Before the Eid celebration, it is customary for those who are able to do so to pay a fasting tax called Zakat al-Fitr. The money is given to those in need so that they can buy festive food, gifts or new clothes for the big celebration.
Food is an important part of the Eid celebration. Family and friends gather for a festive meal where delicious food and sweets are served. The food on the table varies from family to family.
It is common to greet each other with “Eid Mubarak”, which means you wish a happy celebration. Many people give or send each other Eid cards.
