Eid al-Fitr is an important Islamic holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, worship and spiritual reflection. During Ramadan, Muslims fast for approximately 30 days from dawn until sunset as a way to strengthen their faith and grow closer to Allah, or God.
“After breaking my fast with a date and a glass of water, my mom will often make South Asian food like samosas, pakoras or chicken patties,” senior Daaniel Pasha said. “Before fasting, stocking up on yogurt and bananas is something I do during suhoor [the meal before sunrise] because the yogurt can help quench thirst while fasting, and bananas are good protein for the bones to prevent muscle cramps that may arise due to not being able to drink water.”
During Ramadan, people often break their fast after dusk with dates because it is a Ramadan tradition rooted in science and Sunnah, the guiding principles defined by the Prophet Muhammad. Dates provide a natural source of sugar to boost glucose levels and nutrients like potassium and magnesium.
Additionally, Eid helps individuals practice self-discipline, gratitude and empathy for those who are less fortunate than themselves. This fasting, known in Arabic as Siyam, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the core acts of worship that guide a Muslim’s faith and practice. Beyond simply avoiding food and drinks, fasting also encourages Muslim’s to purify their thoughts, increase the amount they pray and read the Quran, the Islamic holy book.
“On the eve of Eid [the last day of fasting during Ramadan], South Asian Muslim culture celebrates ‘chaand raat’ [the night of the moon] where people gather together and break their fast together while watching the new moon rise, marking the beginning of Eid,” Pasha said.
Many Muslims also perform acts of kindness and charity to cleanse their souls and promote spiritual growth. When Ramadan ends, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr with special prayers, festive meals and spend time with family and friends.
“My favorite part of Eid is spending time with family and celebrating after Ramadan. I also really enjoy the food and sense of community,” junior Farah Elomari said. “My family bakes cookies and shares them with family, friends and neighbors during the day. It’s a small tradition, but something I always look forward to each year.”
The celebration of Eid lasts one to three days, allowing time for families and friends to gather and share traditions. Eid usually looks like prayer with family and friends in the morning with a feast following along with receiving money [called Idi] and gifts for the kids.
“I usually go to prayer and then go to eat barbeque with my friends and family,” freshman Meena Elhadi said.
Everyone looks forward to this celebration and has unique traditions that make Eid special.
“I usually have family gatherings where we have lunch and dinner, but the special part of Eid is when the older people in our family give the kids money [Idi],” sophomore Murad Feroze said.
