Eid is a joyous occasion for Muslims, but it also carries deep spiritual meaning. From prayer to charity, and from family to community. TogetherintheUK’s (TGIUK) article delves into the values that make Eid such a cherished and essential celebration.
Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of Breaking Fast, will be celebrated worldwide by over two billion Muslims. This year, marking the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid is expected to fall on Sunday, 30 or Monday, 31 March, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. The first sighting of the moon is a jubilant occasion, and in Muslim countries, the news would be traditionally shared with the sound of cannons, the beating of drums, or even bonfires on mountaintops. Today, many of these traditional methods are still followed along with announcements on social media, national television, and radio. In whatever manner the news is shared, Eid is welcomed. After a month of personal sacrifice, it is one of Islam’s most important and joyous celebrations.
Eid Al Fitr, the first of two Muslim festivals, the second being Eid al-Adha, marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting observed by Muslims around the world. While non-Muslims might think that Ramadan is only about fasting, it is, more importantly, a period of reflection, a time to recognise and empathise with those less fortunate, to seek closeness to Allah (God), and strengthen moral and spiritual character. And so, spiritually, the culmination of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, holds deep religious significance, celebrating the period of personal sacrifice and spiritual growth and marking a new beginning full of hope and personal sacrifice. It is also a time for celebration, compassion, and unity with family, friends, and the community.
Coming together to pray is an important element of virtually every religion because it serves multiple spiritual, social, and emotional functions that strengthen the individual and the community. And so, Eid Al-Fitr begins with the special prayer, Salat al-Eid, which is typically performed in congregations at mosques or open spaces. It is a central part of this festival of gratitude, where the community comes together to give thanks to Allah for all the blessings in their life and Ramadan. For such a significant religious gathering, worshipers dress in their best clothes, and if possible, men, women, and children wear traditional Islamic dress for prayers.
When we lived in the Middle East, my daughter and I enjoyed shopping with our Muslim girlfriends, picking out special dresses and outfits for Eid, just like my mum would do for me as a child for Christmas. Sinéad
One of the five pillars of Islam is Zakat. Zakat is the Arabic word for ‘giving to charity’, which forms an essential element of Islam throughout the year. However, it is particularly significant on Eid. Before the Eid prayer, Muslims give a special charity called Zakat al-Fitr, ensuring that even the less fortunate can take part in the festivities. This act of charity reflects the Islamic values of helping others, sharing blessings, and fostering unity. In many countries, charitable organisations provide Eid community meals to Muslims who may be separated from their families or who cannot afford to celebrate without support – this is one of the key spirits of Eid – supporting your community.
The best part about this holiday is that all the celebrations are preceded by giving charity to the poor. Hammad
Eid is deeply meaningful for families as it strengthens relationships and brings loved ones together. Like so many other cultures, Eid encourages people to open their doors and welcome extended families, friends, and even strangers. Everyone is welcome to join and enjoy the festive meals and celebrations. It’s a time to forgive, reconnect, and spread happiness.
Everyone is welcome to our home and to join us; no invitation is needed as Eid is a time for community, and nobody is a stranger. Haya
Eid is especially exciting for children as they receive Eidiyah (gifts or money) from elders. Homes are filled with joy, laughter, and traditional foods, creating cherished memories that last a lifetime.
With such a multicultural society, the UK embraces and recognises the significant occasion of many religions. While Eid is not a national holiday as it is in Islamic countries, Muslims will celebrate and welcome non-Muslims to join them wherever possible. The traditional greeting for Eid is “Eid Mubarak”, which literally means “blessed Eid” and is a way of expressing celebration. You might also hear “Eid sa’id“, which means “Happy Eid”. Other countries have different greetings, though. In Nigeria, people are likely to say “Balla da Sallah“, which is the Hausa for Happy Eid. In Malaysia, Eid is called Hari Raya, so to wish someone a happy Eid, you would say “Selamat Hari Raya”. As Christians enjoy sharing Christmas greetings, Muslims also welcome festive greetings from non-Muslims. Every year, we share Eid greetings via WhatsApp with our Muslim friends across the globe, and each one of them delights in Eid being recognised and celebrated, so don’t be afraid to share in this important festival.
Ultimately, Eid al-Fitr is about gratitude, love, and generosity. It reminds Muslims of the importance of faith, family, and kindness to others. It is a time when Muslims remember their responsibility to their neighbour, a sentiment that is welcomed by all.
TogetherintheUK wish all who are celebrating Eid al-Fitr, Eid Mubarak!
Understanding the different traditions of a multicultural society encourages inclusivity. To understand the significance of Ramadan, the Holy Month of fasting, read the TGIUK blog on Connecting Cultures – An Insight into Ramadan
To read more about the lives and impacts of migrants on UK society, go to TogetherintheUK.
