CAIRO — As the Islamic holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims globally are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. This holiday is traditionally welcomed with great enthusiasm, featuring communal prayers, joyful gatherings, family visits, and the wearing of new clothes.
This year’s Eid arrives amidst the ongoing Iran conflict, which has significantly impacted many Middle Eastern countries and had repercussions beyond the region.
In the United States, Muslims have observed Ramadan’s spiritual and social customs while facing concerns about both local and international issues. These include fears surrounding immigration policies and anti-Muslim rhetoric domestically, as well as worries about the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, where many have family ties.
The holiday marks the end of Ramadan
Eid al-Fitr celebrates the conclusion of Ramadan, a month dedicated to fasting from dawn until sunset by devout Muslims. The period is marked by increased devotion, charitable acts, and breaking the fast with festive gatherings.
The phrase Eid al-Fitr translates to the feast or festival signaling the end of the fast.
Eid al-Fitr cycles through the seasons
Following the lunar calendar, the timing of Ramadan and Eid shifts each year. In 2023, Eid al-Fitr is anticipated to begin around March 20, although the exact date may differ across countries and Muslim communities.
Greeting those celebrating Eid
To greet someone celebrating Eid, you can say: Eid Mubarak, or Blessed Eid, and Happy Eid.
Traditions and customs associated with Eid al-Fitr
In Indonesia, many people embark on an exodus to their hometowns to celebrate the holiday with loved ones in a homecoming tradition. People pour out of major cities to return to villages to celebrate the holiday with prayers and family gatherings.
Before the holiday, popular markets typically teem with shoppers buying clothes, shoes, cookies and sweets.
In Malaysia, Muslims also have a homecoming tradition for Eid. The first day usually begins with a morning prayer in the mosque, seeking forgiveness from family and friends, and visiting loved ones’ graves.
There’s an “open house” spirit that sees friends and families trading visits to celebrate Eid and enjoy traditional delicacies.
Older Muslims give money in green packets to children and guests who visit their homes.
In Egypt, families partake in Eid prayers amid a festive atmosphere. Many visit relatives, friends or neighbors and some travel to vacation spots. Children, usually wearing new Eid outfits, receive traditional cash gifts known as “eidiya.”
Making or buying Eid cookies dusted with powdered sugar is another fixture of marking the holiday in the country.
In the United States, where Muslims make up an ethnically and racially diverse minority, many come together for Eid prayers and for festivals featuring fun activities for children and families. These often include such things as face painting and balloon twisting.
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