Eid al-Fitr
Feast of Breaking the Fast
What is it?
Eid al-Fitr is one of the major holidays in Islam. It happens after the holy month of Ramadan, where Muslims around the world fast for a month between sunrise and sunset. It falls on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month in the Islamic lunar calendar.
Why do Muslims fast?
Ramadan is a month where one tries to give up a bad habit for a month, then for life. It is a month where Muslims try to become closer to Allah by reading the Qur'an and praying. Fasting is meant to teach Muslims self-discipline, self-restraint and generosity. It also reminds them of the suffering of the poor, who may rarely get to eat well. Muslims believe that during this month the gates of hell close — meaning the devil is unable to tempt them during a month of discipline, charity and self-control.
What is done on Eid?
Preparation
On the last few days of Ramadan, each Muslim family gives a determined amount as a donation to the poor.This donation is of actual food -- rice, barley, dates, rice, etc. -- to ensure that the needy can have a holiday meal and participate in the celebration This donation is known as sadaqah al-fitr (charity of fast-breaking).
On the day of...
Muslims wake up bright and early to clean themselves and get ready for the long day ahead. It is Sunnah (a recommended practice of the Prophet Muhammad) to take a bath and wear new or clean clothes.
Prayer
Muslims gather early in the morning in outdoor locations or mosques to perform the Eid prayer. This consists of a sermon followed by a short congregational prayer.
Afterwards
After the Eid prayer, Muslims usually scatter to visit various family and friends, give gifts (especially to children), and make phone calls to distant relatives to give well wishes for the holiday.
Celebration
These activities traditionally continue for three days. In most Muslim countries, the entire 3-day period is an official government/school holiday.
Most importantly...
Eat to your stomach`s content!
Eid not only celebrates the end of Ramadan, but is also for giving thanks to Allah for giving one the strength to get by the previous month. As it is meant to be a day for happiness, it is prohibited that a Muslim fasts on Eid. It is also a time of forgiveness, and making amends. It is a joyous holiday that is celebrated all over the world in many different ways.
References
"How Is Eid Al-Fitr Celebrated in Islam?" Abour Religion. Web. 5 June 2015. <http://http://islam.about.com/od/ramadan/f/eid_fitr.htm>.
"Ramadan - 28 June 2014." BBC News. BBC. Web. 6 June 2015. <http://http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/religion/islam/ramadan.shtml>.