In the Muslim world, the end of Ramadan is marked by a one-to-three-day festival called Eid al-Fitr. This special holiday is one of two most important and joyful events in the Islamic faith and is celebrated among family and friends with feasting and thankfulness for having successfully completed Ramadan’s fasting commitments.
Source: Alriyadh Newspaper
Many families in Saudi Arabia decorate their homes and prepare new clothes and shoes for the festival. Eid festivities in the Kingdom may vary culturally depending on the region, but one common thread in all celebrations is generosity and hospitality. It is a common Saudi tradition for families to gather at the patriarchal home after the Eid prayers. Before the special Eid meal is served, young children will line up in front of each adult family member to receive generous gifts of candy, small sums of money, and other presents called an eidiyah. Children and adults will then visit their relatives, neighbors, and friends to present their Eid vows.
In Saudi Arabia this year, Eid al-Fitr is predicted to take place on May 13 – although the exact date may differ depending on the sighting of the lunar crescent. Eid al-Fitr translates into English as Festival of Breaking the Fast; below are some more common words, phrases and greetings associated with the holiday:
Eid Mubarak |
This is the most common greeting to give to someone celebrating Eid, which means “blessed feast/festival” |
Kol ‘Am Wa Antum Bekhair |
“May every year find you in good health!” |
Eidiyah |
A gift given by older relatives and family friends to children to celebrate the end of Ramadan, most commonly small sums of money or sweets |
Zakat al-Fitr |
A small donation given before the Eid al-Fitr prayer. Every adult Muslim who possesses food in excess of their needs must pay zakat al-Fitr. The head of household can also pay zakat al-Fitr for their dependents such as children and any dependent relatives. Zakat al-Fitr can be paid during Ramadan, before Eid al-Fitr prayers at the latest, so that the poor can enjoy the day of Eid. |
Salaat al-Eid |
Eid prayers, also known as Salaat al-Eid, is the special prayers offered to celebrate the two Islamic festivals traditionally in an open space allocated or field available for prayer. Muslims usually dress up to attend their local mosque, where as well as taking part in prayers, it’s a time for many people to have the first breakfast during sunlight hours they’ve had in a month. |
