Ramadan is the most sacred month in the Muslims calendar and this year it ends on June 4. Members of the Islamic Faith mark Ramadan with four weeks of fasting which they believe brings them closer to God. A joyous holiday, known as Eid is celebrated at the end of Ramadan.
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and is when Muslims believe verses of the Koran were first revealed by God.
They observe the holy period by abstaining from eating and drinking, smoking and sexual activity from sunrise to sunset.
The Islamic calendar is lunar which means the dates of Ramadan change every year depending on the phase of the moon.
The end of Ramadan is marked by the spotting of the Shawwal moon.
Once the Shawwal moon has been sighted Eid, will begin.
Why do Muslims celebrate Eid?
Muslims celebrate Eid to give thanks to God following a month of abstinence.
Fasting is forbidden on the day of Eid.
While every country celebrates Eid differently it is a day for feasting with friends and family.
Muslims all buy new clothes to wear on the special day.
Muslims across the world begin Eid with morning prayers.
After Eid prayers, a specially-prepared sweet dish is eaten and the rest of day is spent celebrating with friends and family.
Families and friends indulge together and share gifts.
How to wish someone ‘Happy Eid!’
The traditional Eid greeting is to say “Eid Mubarak.”
Muslims greet one another on Eid to mark the special holiday.
Muslims follow this greeting which means “Happy holiday” or “Happy celebrations” with a formal embrace, three times.