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The holy month of Ramadan is coming to a close, and Muslims worldwide are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. This joyous occasion is typically marked by communal prayers, vibrant festivities, and cherished family gatherings, complete with new clothes and special outings.
This year, however, the celebrations arrive amidst the backdrop of ongoing conflict in Iran, which has stirred unrest across various Middle Eastern nations and created ripple effects that extend far beyond the region.
In the United States, the observance of Ramadan has been overshadowed by both domestic and international challenges. Concerns about strict immigration policies and anti-Muslim sentiments, coupled with worries about the Middle East conflicts affecting loved ones, have weighed heavily on many Muslim communities.
The holiday marks the end of Ramadan
Eid al-Fitr is a significant Islamic holiday that signifies the conclusion of Ramadan, a period during which devout Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. This month is dedicated to heightened spiritual practices, acts of charity, and good deeds, often culminating in joyful feasts with family and friends.
The term Eid al-Fitr translates to “the festival of breaking the fast,” celebrating the end of the fasting period with gratitude and communal joy.
Eid al-Fitr cycles through the seasons
Islam follows a lunar calendar and so Ramadan and Eid cycle through the seasons. This year, the first day of Eid al-Fitr is expected to be on or around March 20. The actual date may vary among 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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