The festival of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, is celebrated all over the world. Muslims observe Ramadan by reading the Qur’an, emphasizing charity (zakat), abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours, and concentrating on prayer and study to increase their taqwa, or sacred consciousness. Observation of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam.
Eid al-Fitr, often shortened to “Eid,” is a joyous celebration traditionally lasting three days. Muslims mark the occasion with private and community events such as communal prayer (salat), parties, preparing and eating special foods, giving gifts, wearing new clothes, and visiting friends and family. A few days before Eid al-Fitr, Muslims make donations of food to the poor—sadaqah al-fitr (charity of fast-breaking)—so that all may mark the end of fasting with a special meal for the holiday.