Eid al-Fitr Celebrations Around the World: A Festive Tradition

As the month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims globally are gearing up for the joyous celebrations of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of their month-long fast.

The first day of Eid al-Fitr hinges on the sighting of the crescent moon, indicating the start of Shawwal, the 10th month in the Islamic calendar.

Lunar months span between 29 and 30 days, necessitating a wait until the evening before Eid to confirm the precise date.

After the sunset prayers on the 29th day of Ramadan, moon observers align themselves westward for a potential glimpse of the new crescent; if sighted, Eid is declared for the following day.

Various countries employ distinct sighting methodologies to determine the onset of Eid, which is then officially announced through media outlets and mosques.

Eid festivities typically span three days in Muslim-majority nations, though the duration of holidays may differ across regions worldwide.

The commencement of Eid involves a morning prayer service held at dawn, preceded by a brief sermon.

Prior to the prayer, Muslims engage in reciting takbeerat, glorifying God with expressions like “Allahu Akbar” or “God is great”.

Customarily, sweet treats like maamoul, a type of pastry popular in the Middle East, are consumed before the prayer, earning Eid the moniker of the “sweet” festival.

Eid day entails visiting family and neighbors, exchanging sweets, and savoring traditional desserts distinctive to each country.

Children don new attire and receive gifts or money, enhancing the jubilant atmosphere of the occasion.

In many cultures, women adorn their hands with henna and engage in spirited henna application gatherings preceding Eid celebrations.

Some nations incorporate a visit to cemeteries post-morning prayers to honor departed loved ones, while cities are illuminated and festivities abound in celebration of the fasting month’s conclusion.

For the 2.3 million Gazans observing Eid, this year’s festivities are marked by the aftermath of extensive losses incurred in recent conflicts, underscoring the challenges faced.

Eid greetings, notably “Eid Mubarak” or “Eid sa’id”, echo globally, adapting to linguistic and regional nuances.

The universality of the Eid celebration is underscored by diverse expressions of “Eid Mubarak” across languages and cultures.