The MPA celebrates Eid al-Fitr

Date 28th March

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Eid al-Fitr, known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is a significant Islamic holiday marking the conclusion of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. In 2025, Eid al-Fitr is anticipated to commence on the evening of March 30th, with celebrations continuing into the next day. However, the exact date may vary depending on the sighting of the new moon, as the Islamic calendar is lunar-based. The customary Eid greeting is “Eid Mubarak”. The day is spent with family and friends and includes special prayers, acts of charity and plenty of food and drink.

Eid al-Fitr embodies the spirit of generosity, compassion, and thankfulness, symbolising the culmination of a month of spiritual growth and devotion.

The Significance of Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr holds profound spiritual and communal importance for Muslims worldwide. It is a time to express gratitude to Allah for the strength to complete the fast and to seek forgiveness for any shortcomings during Ramadan. The festival also emphasises community, charity, and the renewal of faith.

Historical Background

The origins of Eid al-Fitr trace back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad. Upon his migration to Medina, he observed that its people had two days of festivity. He then proclaimed that Allah had designated two better days for celebration: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

Traditional Observances

Communal Prayers: The day begins with a special prayer service held in large congregations, often in open fields or mosques. This prayer, known as Salat al-Eid, includes specific rituals and is an opportunity for the community to come together in worship.
Zakat al-Fitr: Before the Eid prayer, Muslims are obligated to give a form of charity called Zakat al-Fitr. This donation, typically consisting of staple food items, ensures that those in need can also partake in the celebrations.
Feasting and Socialising: After the prayer, families and friends gather to share festive meals. Traditional dishes vary by region but often include sweets and special delicacies prepared for the occasion.
Visiting Graves: Many Muslims visit the graves of deceased relatives to offer prayers and reflect on the transient nature of life.
Gift Giving: Exchanging gifts, especially giving money or presents to children, is a common practice, symbolising love and fostering community bonds.

Global Celebrations

Eid al-Fitr is celebrated with diverse customs across different cultures:

In the Middle East: Families come together for large feasts, and it’s customary to wear new clothes to signify renewal.
In South Asia: The festival is marked by preparing sweet dishes like sheer khurma (a vermicelli and milk dessert) and visiting friends and family.
In Africa: Communities gather for communal prayers, and the day is filled with music, dance, and communal meals.

In Western countries: Muslim communities often organise community events, fairs, and collective prayers, sharing their traditions with the broader society.

Eid al-Fitr 2025 in the United Kingdom

In the UK, Eid al-Fitr is a vibrant celebration reflecting the country’s diverse Muslim population. Communal prayers are held in mosques and open spaces, followed by community events, feasting, and cultural activities. Given the multicultural nature of British society, these celebrations often incorporate a blend of traditional practices from various cultures, enriching the festive experience.

Eid al-Fitr is a time of joy, reflection, and community. As Muslims around the world prepare to celebrate in 2025, the festival serves as a reminder of the values of compassion, gratitude, and unity that lie at the heart of Islam.