From fast to feast: an insider’s guide to Eid
Muslims around the world are getting ready to celebrate the end of fasting and start feasting.
It’s time for Eid!
Eid Al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and also well known as the festival of “Breaking the Fast”.
What is Eid?
Eid is happy time where Muslims reward themselves for having successfully observed the month of Ramadan – 30 days of avoiding food, drink and self-indulgence from sunrise to sunset.
In countries with long daylight hours, that means fasting for 19 hours straight!
It’s a huge three day feast which breaks the fast for Ramadan. Fasting ends on the sighting of the new moon and Eid-al-Fitr kicks off the next day.
It starts in the morning with communal prayer at the local mosque. People proudly wear their new clothes; and children look forward to receiving gifts.
And of course, there is food – lots and lots of amazing food and we have parties that often last long into the night.
What is the best thing about Eid?
Waking up and eating food in daylight! Having cake for breakfast and enjoying the morning coffee once more.
The atmosphere is electric with everyone wearing new, bright clothes and meeting up with friends and relatives who you haven’t seen for a long time.
I love the night before Eid, as everyone in the neighbourhood gets together to decorate their homes and streets with coloured lights. It’s a really colourful occasion.
What is the worst thing about Eid?
Getting a phone signal 😉 The mobile networks are very busy as everyone tries to call at the same time, so it’s hard to get hold of my friends and family!
Let’s not forget…
Charity is an important part of Ramadan and people are encouraged to be generous and give to those who are less fortunate.
If you’re still looking to make a donation this Ramadan, INTO Giving supports a number of projects which help children get access to education.
Find out more here.
Well done to everyone who fasted during Ramadan and Happy Eid!
Find out how our students have been celebrating Ramadan and Eid this year on our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!
