Eid al-Fitr Facts

What is Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr is a religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide and takes place across the 2nd and 3rd of May this year. Also known as 'The Feast of Breaking the Fast', Eid al-Fitr is a festival that marks the end of Ramadan. 'Eid al-Fitr' and 'Eid ul-Fitr' are the same thing, but spelt differently around the world.

What is Ramadan? 

Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It lasts for 29 to 30 days, which is roughly one month. For these 30 days, Muslims are expected to fast from dawn until sunset everyday until the new moon appears and Eid begins. Muslims fast during Ramadan to help devote themselves to Islam. They do this to learn self-discipline and feel empathy for the poor. For more information about Ramadan, visit our Ramadan Facts for Kids blog here. 

What happens during Eid al-Fitr? 

At the start of the tenth month and at the first sighting on the new moon, Muslims break their fast and celebrate with friends and family. They wear their best clothes, decorate their homes, give gifts and feast! 

Why is Eid al-Fitr important to the Muslim faith? 

There are many religious festivals celebrated by Muslims across the year, but Eid al-Fitr is often regarded as the most important celebration in the Islamic calendar. It is said that the religious festival was started by Prophet Mohammed himself. 

Reasons why Eid al-Fitr is so important: 

• Eid for many Muslims brings them closer to Allah and is a time where people thank him for the strength and opportunities that he gives them. 

• This time is also special to the Muslim community because many recieve gifts from family members, symbolising the sharing of love and respect. 

• Another reason why Eid al-Fitr is important is because it is a time where Muslims seek forgiveness from both Allah and also members of the community. 

• Muslims also unite in giving to those who are less fortunate, including giving food, clothes and money to members of the community who may be struggling. 

What can other people learn from Eid? 

Five Facts about Eid al-Fitr

• Eid al-Fitr lasts for three days 
• Eid al-Fitr is different from Eid ul-Adha
• Eid means festival in Arabic
• People greet one another during Eid with ‘Eid Mubarak’ which means ‘Happy Eid’ or ‘Blessed Eid’
• Muslims celebrate Eid worldwide. Traditional foods eaten during the celebration depend on where in the world they live. 

Check out these FREE Eid Card Templates!