The Feast of Breaking the Fast, is the Muslim religious holiday that celebrates the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting (sawm). The holiday marks the conclusion of a month of dawn-to-sunset fasting during which Muslims subordinate physical needs and worldly desires in order to purify themselves; to focus on God; and to cultivate the virtues of patience, discipline, steadfastness, humility and charity. Eid al-Fitr is a day of prayer and celebration during which Muslims seek mercy and forgive offenses that may have occurred during the previous year.
Because Eid ends a period of disciplined fasting and reflection, Muslims awaken before sunrise, offer prayers, and enjoy small sweets for breakfast. Later, the day includes charitable donations toward those in need and large public gatherings for special Eid prayers (Eid salat), followed by celebratory family or community feasts and gift-giving (money, new clothes, candies and toys). In many countries, Eid is celebrated as a public holiday for up to three days.
Eid highlights the unity of Muslims around the world and celebrates the renewed focus on what is considered of utmost importance. Please join in wishing Muslim members of our community ‘Eid Mubārak’—A Blessed Eid.