Ramadan is one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar and is a period of fasting, extra prayer and charitable deeds. Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and during the month, Muslims will fast from dawn to sunset – breaking the fast with two meals. The first meal is had in the early hours of the morning before the sun rises and the second late at night as the sun sets.
When is Eid? When does Ramadan end?
Eid al Fitr – also known as Eid ul Fitr or the Festival of Breaking the Fast – puts an end to Muslims fasting during daylight hours.
Ramadan began on May 6 for countries which follow the Moon sightings at Mecca.
For countries which follow Moon sightings in the UK and Morocco and other countries, Ramadan began a day later on May 7.
As Ramadan comes to an end, the month of Shawwal will begin and with it the festival of Eid al Fitr.
READ MORE: When will the moon be visible to mark end of Ramadan?
This year, for those who observed the beginning of Ramadan as May 6, the holy month will end on Tuesday, June 4.
And for those who followed the Moon sighting a day later on May 7, Ramadan will end on Wednesday, June 5.
How is Eid celebrated?
Eid al Fitr is often celebrated with traditional sweet treats, gifts and attending mosque.
Often new clothes and shoes are purchased, and children are gifted money from relatives.
Read More: Eid 2019: What do you eat to celebrate Eid al Fitr?
Spending time with friends and family, sharing food and giving donations to those less fortunate are also ways to celebrate the festival.
A specific prayer is said to mark the occasion, this is known as Salat.
How can you greet someone for Eid?
On Eid al Fitr, the greeting most commonly used is “Eid Mubarak.”
You can also add “kul ‘am wantum bikhair” which means: “May you be well with every passing year.”
Other phrases you can use are:
“May the blessings of Allah fill your life with happiness and open all the doors of success now and always. Eid Mubarak!”
“May God give you the happiness of heaven above. Happy Eid Mubarak To You All.”
“May this special day bring peace, happiness and prosperity to everyone. Eid Mubarak!”
“May Allah blessings be with you today, tomorrow and always. Eid Mubarak!”