Eid al-Fitr

There are two major holidays in the Islamic calendar. The first is called Eid al-Fitr, or the Festival of Fast-Breaking. This celebration marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan and falls on the first day of Shawwal, the month directly after Ramadan.

In preparation for this holiday, Muslims give money in charity so that every family can enjoy the festivities and have a good meal. On the early morning of the holiday, Muslims gather in a local mosque or outdoor space for the special Eid prayers (salaat-l-'Eid). Every man, woman, and child is welcome to attend this community prayer, which is preceded by a sermon. Following a short prayer, worshipers greet each other and begin several days of family visits.

The festivities of the holiday traditionally last for three days. During this time, Muslims try to spend time with family and friends, visit the sick and elderly, and offer games and gifts to the children. Muslims thus celebrate the completion of another fasting month, seek blessings and forgiveness, and look forward to the opportunity to fast again the following year.

by Christine Huda Dodge