As the crescent moon appears, a joyful wave spreads worldwide. Lanterns glow and kitchens burst with spicy sweets as families gather in warmth and gratitude. Eid al-Fitr transcends celebration; it’s a heartfelt homecoming for Muslims worldwide. It’s a time for family, community, and gratitude, and echoes the values encouraged through Friendship Force’s mission. Eid encourages connection and reflection with those we care about.
The words “Eid al-Fitr” themselves translate to “festival of breaking the fast,” and represent a significant Islamic holiday marking the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from eating, drinking, and other worldly pleasures to focus on spiritual growth and self-discipline. Since the celebration begins with the sighting of the new moon, its start time can vary across different countries. This year, Eid will be observed on either Sunday, March 30th, or Monday, March 31st, depending on local moon sightings.
The celebrations typically begin with a morning prayer known as salat al-eid. After washing and dressing in their best clothes, Muslims usually gather for this special congregational prayer at their local mosques to hear the imams deliver their sermons. The day unfurls into a joyous symphony of feasts, music, and communal revelry. In the larger bustling cities, the spirit of Eid spills into vibrant celebrations—prayers echo in grand event centers, food festivals overflow with fragrant dishes, and the community’s generosity shines through charity events, where zakat (alms) are given to support the less fortunate.
The holiday can last up to three days, and greetings like Eid Mubarak, meaning Blessed Feast or Festival, are exchanged between friends and family.
One of the most anticipated aspects of Eid al-Fitr is the feast. Because this is a worldwide festival, a wide variety of traditional foods are enjoyed:
Indonesia, home to the world’s largest Muslim population with over 230 million Muslims: Ketupat (rice cakes wrapped in palm leaves) is often served with rendang (spicy beef stew), and lapis legit, a spiced layered cake.
In Turkey, baklava, a sweet pastry filled with nuts and drenched in syrup, is a favorite during Eid, along with börek, pastries filled with cheese or minced meat.
In Egypt, kahk (Eid cookies) filled with dates or nuts are a special treat, and fattah, a dish of rice, crispy bread, and lamb, is commonly served.
In the Levantine region and the Middle East, maamoul are shortbread cookies stuffed with dates, pistachios, or other dried fruits and nuts, a popular sweet during Eid.
In North Africa, particularly Morocco and Algeria, tajine is a slow-cooked stew made with lamb or beef, and often enriched with dried fruit like plums and apricots.
In Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and parts of Central Asia, sheer khurma, a creamy vermicelli pudding made with dates, roasted nuts, and milk, is a cherished dessert during Eid.
How Can Non-Muslims Celebrate Eid al-Fitr?
Although Eid al-Fitr is an Islamic holiday, its spirit of joy, gratitude, and community resonate with many. Here are some ways you can join in or show solidarity with Muslim friends or those in your communities:
- Join a Local Celebration: Many cities around the world host public Eid celebrations, where you can enjoy music, food, and community activities.
- Learn About the Culture: Take the time to learn about the traditions and customs of Eid al-Fitr. By understanding the significance of fasting and charity during Ramadan, you can gain a deeper appreciation of the holiday.
- Volunteer or Donate: Eid is a time for giving, and many Muslims participate in charitable activities like donating food or money to those in need. Consider volunteering at a local shelter or donating to a charity in honor of the holiday’s message of compassion.
- Enjoy Eid-Inspired Food: Whether it’s through cooking or visiting a friend or restaurant, why not enjoy some of the traditional foods of Eid? Trying dishes like Sheer Khurma or Tajine can bring a taste of Eid into your home!
Eid al-Fitr is a celebration that transcends borders and cultures. Whether it’s the communal prayers, the shared meals, or the emphasis on generosity and kindness, this holiday unites people in shared values of gratitude and togetherness. Much like our own mission in Friendship Force, Eid is a reminder that by coming together we can create a more connected and compassionate world.
Eid Mubarak to all our members and readers who celebrate!
