Ramadan comes to an end this Thursday and over 1 billion Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a festival that marks the end of the fast.
Here are some facts you might not know about one of Islam’s most important holidays
Eid al-Fitr literally translates as “Festival of the breaking of the Fast”
2. THERE ARE GREETINGS OF THE EID
Most common greeting for the Eid is “Eid Mubarak”, meaning “Have a blessed Eid!”
The date for ‘Eid al-Fitr is based on the sighting of the new moon after a month of fasting so IT starts on different days and different times in different locations across the globe.
4. IT TYPICALLY LASTS FOR 3 DAYS
The festival traditionally lasts for three days, but depending on how it falls on the calendar, the celebration could last much longer.
Before leaving to morning prayers, Muslims wake up to cleanse their bodies in a ritual called “ghusl.”
6. THERE ARE THE PRAYERS OF EID
After getting dressed and ready for the day, Muslims gather for prayers in mosques or outdoor locations. The format for Eid-al-Fitr prayer is quite different from those of the daily prayers.
7. GIFTS ARE GIVEN
Gifts are often given, especially to children. These gifts of money, accessories, home goods, or flower are called “Eidi”.
