Eid Al-Fitr

Eid al Fitr is the Muslim festival that concludes the holy month of Ramadan, leading into the 10^th month in the Islamic calendar – Shawwal.

What is the Significance of Eid Al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr literally means ‘breaking of the fast’ and is one of the most important and celebrated Islamic holidays worldwide. Not only does it allow people to celebrate the end of the fast, but it is also an opportunity to thank Allah (SWT) for the Qur’an, which was first revealed to followers during the holy month of Ramadan.

Eid al-Fitr is the chance to pray in gratitude to Allah (SWT) for giving them the strength and resilience to overcome temptations and practice self-control during the sunrise to sunset fasting periods,  

How is it Celebrated?

Usually, Eid al-Fitr is celebrated over the course of one to three days, depending on where you are. For many Islamic countries, Eid al-Fitr is a three-day holiday with all public offices, schools, and banking institutions closed during those three days.

With fasting officially ending on the last day of Ramadan, Muslims are no longer allowed to fast – in fact, it is forbidden by the Qur’an.

Are there any Special Eid Prayers?

Eid prayers (Salat al-Fitr) are organised in open-air public places throughout villages, towns, and cities across the globe. The Takbir is recited, as is Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illa l-Lah wal-Lahu Akbar, Allahu akbar walil-Lahi l-hamd.

After prayers, Muslims are reminded about the importance of Zakat and seeking forgiveness and blessings from Allah (SWT).

What Special Foods are Eaten During Eid Al-Fitr?

Considering Eid al-Fitr celebrates the breaking of the fast, food is an essential element of the traditions of Eid. Many different countries and cultures have their favourite dishes that are prepared and shared with families, friends, and neighbours. For example, in Turkey, Eid al-Fitr is also known as Seker Bayram – or Sugar Festival, with sweets and baklava, special Turkish pastries, served throughout the three-day holidays to visitors.

Indian Muslims prepare a special biriyani, a spicy rice and meat dish, while their Malaysian brothers and sisters indulge in rendang, a hot beef curry.

What Other Eid Al-Fitr Traditions are there?

Spiritual renewal is symbolised by the custom of wearing new clothes on the first day of Eid al-Fitr. This has become a tradition in communities across the world of families buying new clothes and dressing up for the morning prayers, gathering in large communities in their finery as they come together as communities to pray, eat, and talk after a month of fasting and contemplation.

The giving of gifts is also an act that is encouraged. Although the compulsion to meet Zakat obligations lies in the heart of this generosity of spirit, many families use this as an opportunity to offer gifts to their loved ones, and especially to children.

What is Eid Al-Adha?

There are two Eid festivals during the Islamic year. Eid al-Fitr, the first day of Shawwal, as described in this article. Eid al-Adha is the festival of sacrifice inspired by the sacrifice the Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was willing to make in his submission to Allah (SWT). It takes place on the 10th day of the 12^th month of the Islamic calendar, Dhu al-Hijjah, and immediately follows the third day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage that Muslims are encouraged to take to Makkah in Saudi Arabia.

What are the 2025 Dates for Eid Al-Fitr?

In 2025, Eid al Fitr, the first day of Shawwal, is celebrated on 30 March. Muslim festivals are celebrated in accordance with the Islamic calendar, which follows the lunar cycle. Local dates may vary, so please check with your local mosque for the exact date nearer the time.

Give Your Zakat to UKIM

As previously mentioned, Zakat is an integral feature of Eid al-Fitr. Donate yours to UKIM.