Did you know about these beautiful Eid traditions?

The end of Ramadan marks the joyous occasion of Eid Al Fitr (feast after fasting) on which celebrations are held, typically for three days. Eid commences on the sighting of the Shawwal (tenth month of the Hijri calendar) crescent moon,when the 29 or 30 days of Ramadan conclude after sunset.

Upon the sighting of the Shawwal moon, Eid is confirmed and greetings are exchanged. Special preparations are made for the celebrations next day.

This year, Eid Al Fitr is expected to begin on June 25th. If this is the case, the eve of  Eid will commence on June 24th after Iftar.

Photo by Lubaib Gazir

Many of these preparations are already undertaken during Ramadan, so as to avoid last-minute shopping and hassle. Wearing new or festive clothes, cooking sweet meats and festive dishes, arranging family or social get-togethers are among few of the traditions that are followed through in every Muslim country and culture.

In Qatar, the welcome news of Eid is exchanged in chants of ‘Mu’ayada’, as well as 'Eid Mubarak’ or a prayer, "May Allah accept your prayers".

On the eve of Eid, when the Shawwal moon is sighted, people in Qatar will get down to business and start their preparations for the ocassion. Qatari people serve sweets, citrus fruits and nuts at the Majlis on Eid. Showing hospitality and warm welcome to visitors is of utmost importance, hence the sweets, especially Godu or Fowaleh are prepared beforehand. These are served at the majlis along with tea and coffee on Eid day.

In Pakistan and India the eve of the Eid is called ‘chaand raat’ (night of the moon). There are special bazaars set up for chaand raat with festivities and food stalls that bring a bright flavor to the festival. Henna stalls are rampant as are bangles, the two being synonymous with Eid for girls.

The day starts with giving thanks for passing a successful month. Muslims make themselves clean and dapper and wear fresh clothes then gather for the congregational Eid prayer and Khutba (sermon) held early in the morning. This gathering is also meant to foster mutual relations and kindle goodwill towards each other on this religious festival.

Photo by Raytohgraphy

The tradition of giving alms or zakat is encouraged before the Eid prayer.

In Qatari tradition, children visit their neighbors and chant the greeting, ‘Eidkum Mubarak Ya Ahel Al Bait’ (Eid greetings to your household). They are rewarded with open doors and gifts or Eidiya.

On the first day of Eid, a lunch is held at the Qatari family's elders' house, where all family members are invited.

Certain foods are distinguished as Eid dishes in many countries. In many Arab countries, biscuits and sweets are made especially for Eid, named Kahk, or Kaek.

Moroccan Eid cuisine

Sheer Khurma, a sweet dish made out of vermicelli, butter, sweet milk and dates is a staple Eid sweet in Pakistan and India, along with its variant, Savaiyyan.

For children the most exciting part is the Eidiyah, or Eid gifts. These can be in the form of beautifully wrapped toys and candies, or gifted as money.

Expatriates celebrating Eid in their respective countries (Europe, parts of US and other countries where Eid is not a public holiday) follow these traditions closely and congregate in Islamic centers, convention halls or sports arenas. The ‘open house’ tradition is common where guests are invited to attend the dining occasion throughout the day.

In Qatar the three days of Eid are well laid out with vibrant festivities and culinary events. Fantastic Eid buffets and feasts are available at restaurants, cafes and eateries. Visitor attractions are punctuated with colorful displays of Eid extravaganza, performers, and entertainment geared for children activities at malls, Katara, Souq Waqif and various venues throughout Qatar.

Photo by Mohamed Atef

Eid is accented with joy, slightly varyingly in each region, be it lavish banquets, simple gatherings or special Eid events, the common theme in all Muslim cultures is hospitability.

Cover photo by Ray Toh