Eid al-Fitr is a significant Islamic celebration marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. The term "Eid al-Fitr" translates to "Festival of Breaking the Fast", and it is observed by Muslims worldwide with prayer, charity and joyous festivities.

Table of Contents

1. When is Eid al-Fitr?
2. The History of Eid al-Fitr?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. The Islamic Lunar Calendar

When is Eid al-Fitr?

The date of Eid al-Fitr varies each year as it is based on the Islamic lunar calendar. It marks the first day of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan. The specific date depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, so it may vary by a day in different countries.

The following is the list of Eid al-Fitr from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Eid al-Fitr

The history of Eid al-Fitr is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition and originates with the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. It marks the culmination of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer and reflection.

The observance of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr are based on revelations in the Qur'an. In the second year of Hijrah (622 CE), fasting during Ramadan was prescribed to Muslims as a way of fostering self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate and spiritual purification.

The first Eid al-Fitr was celebrated by Prophet Muhammad and his followers in 624 CE, following the Battle of Badr. It symbolized gratitude to Allah for the strength and unity shown during Ramadan and the victory in the battle.

Eid al-Fitr is an occasion to thank Allah for granting Muslims the strength to fast and for the guidance and blessings received during Ramadan.

Over centuries, the celebration of Eid al-Fitr has expanded from its origins in Medina to become a global festival observed by Muslims in diverse cultural contexts.

Today, Eid al-Fitr is one of the two major Islamic holidays, celebrated by millions of Muslims worldwide. While customs and traditions vary across cultures, the core themes of faith, gratitude, and community remain universal.

What Do People Do on This Day?

Eid al-Fitr is a joyous occasion celebrated with a mix of religious and cultural practices. The day begins with acts of worship and continues with festive activities.

Muslims gather in mosques or open spaces for a special congregational prayer held in the morning. The prayer consists of two units and is often followed by a sermon. After the prayer, Muslims offer supplications to thank Allah for the strength to complete Ramadan and seek His blessings for the future.

Muslims give charity before the Eid prayer. This ensures that everyone, including the less fortunate, can partake in the celebrations.

People wear their best or new clothes, often traditional attire, symbolizing purity, renewal and respect for the occasion.

Families come together to celebrate, often traveling long distances to meet relatives. Muslims greet each other with Blessed Eid or other local expressions of goodwill.

A variety of delicious dishes and sweets are prepared, with traditional meals varying by region. Sharing meals with friends, neighbors, and the less fortunate is a hallmark of the celebration.

Many people visit the graves of deceased relatives, offering prayers and reflecting on their memories.

The Islamic Lunar Calendar

The Islamic lunar calendar is a calendar system used by Muslims worldwide to determine Islamic holidays, rituals and events. It is based entirely on the cycles of the Moon, making it different from the Gregorian solar calendar.

The calendar is based on the phases of the Moon. Each month begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, making it a lunar calendar. It starts from the year 622 CE, the year of the Prophet Muhammad's migration (Hijra) from Mecca to Medina.

It consists of 12 lunar months, totaling 354 or 355 days, which is about 10 – 12 days shorter than the solar year.

1. Muharram: Sacred month, the first month.
2. Safar: Known for its historical significance.
3. Rabi' al-Awwal: Birth month of Prophet Muhammad.
4. Rabi' al-Thani: Continuation of Rabi' al-Awwal.
5. Jumada al-Awwal: First of Jumada.
6. Jumada al-Thani: Second of Jumada.
7. Rajab: Sacred month.
8. Sha'ban: Month of preparation for Ramadan.
9. Ramadan: The holy month of fasting.
10. Shawwal: Month of Eid al-Fitr.
11. Dhu al-Qi'dah: Sacred month.
12. Dhu al-Hijjah: Month of Hajj and Eid al-Adha.