Eid ul Fitr 2

Eid ul Fitr

Eid-al-Fitr (Eid al-Fitr, Eid ul-Fitr, Id-Ul-Fitr, Eid) is the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal. It marks the end of Ramadan, which is a month of fasting and prayer. Many Muslims attend communal prayers, listen to a khutba (sermon) and give zakat al-fitr (charity in the form of food) during Eid al-Fitr.

Many Muslims dress in fine clothing and children receive gifts on Eid al-Fitr.

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What Do People Do?

Many Muslims attend communal prayers and listen to a khutba or sermon on the first day of the month of Shawwal. These prayers are held outside or in large venues, such as sports arenas, in some places. Many Muslims may travel far to participate in these activities. Some communities organize different festivities, such as communal meals or events for children, on this day.
If a Muslim has not given zakat al-fitr during Ramadan, he or she can give this on Eid-al-Fitr. Zakat al-fitr is a form of charity consisting of a quantity of food, such as barley, dates, raisins or wheat flour, or its monetary equivalent given to the poor. Many Muslims may also prepare festive meals to share, wear new clothes, visit relatives and give presents or candy to children. Cards can also be sent, often featuring the words “Eid Mubbarak” (blessed Eid).

Public Life

Eid al-Fitr is not a nationwide public holiday in countries such as Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom or the United States. However, many Islamic businesses and organizations may have altered opening hours. There may also be some congestion around mosques during the day.

Background

It is not possible to predict the date of Eid-al-Fitr according to the Gregorian calendar accurately. This is because the month of Shawwal begins, and hence the month of Ramadan ends, after a confirmed sighting of the new moon, either in Saudi Arabia or locally. The new moon may be sighted earlier or later in specific locations. Hence, many Muslims in different communities, for example on the east and west coasts of the USA and Canada, may begin the Eid-al-Fitr celebrations on different dates.

Quick Facts

Eid-al-Fitr is a holiday to mark the end of the Islamic month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast during the hours of daylight.

Eid ul Fitr 2018

Different dates in different countries

Eid ul Fitr 2019

Different dates in different countries

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Name in other languages

Name	Language
Eid ul Fitr	English
Aïd el-Fitr	French
Eid al-Fitr (Fest des Fastenbrechens)	German
Eid al-Fitr	Spanish

Eid ul Fitr in …

• Australia
• Canada
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Turkey