Festivals, celebrations, joy of Eid Al-Fitr fast approaching

Muslims worldwide are ready to celebrate Eid Al-Fitr in a festive atmosphere after fasting Ramadan, the most spiritual month in the Muslim calendar.

Eid Al-Fitr or the feast of breaking the fast is a three-day religious holiday marking the end of Ramadan. Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.

The festival was originated by the Islamic prophet Muhammad. It is observed on the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal at the end of Ramadan, during which Muslims undergo a period of fasting.

In the morning, Muslims gather at mosques and prayer areas to perform Eid Prayer and greet each other.

Eid Al-Fitr is celebrated by visiting friends and relatives, hosting food parties and sharing sweets. Children not only get new clothes and shoes, but also receive cash gifts called “Eidia” from their elders and relatives.

The occasion is seen as a time of forgiveness and of giving thanks to Allah for helping people to complete their spiritual fasting. Eid is a joyous and merry time shared with loved ones and relatives in a festive and happy mood all the three-days long.

Many Muslims display their thanks by giving donations and food to those less fortunate than themselves.