Within the Islamic calendar, there are two separate Eid festivals, each of which is in celebration of something different. These festivals are known as Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha, respectively. Eid ul-Fitr signals the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the start of Shawwal, which is the 10th month in the Islamic calendar. Eid ul-Fitr is a three-day celebration in order to mark the end of the fast. Eid ul-Adha follows the Hajj pilgrimage and Qurbani in Dhul Hijjah. It takes place on the 10th day of the 12th month.

Since Eid ul-Fitr is fast approaching, we will pay attention to its significance and the reasoning behind why it’s celebrated. On top of this, we’ll discuss the Eid dates for 2023.

What Does Eid ul-Fitr Mean?

So, what is Eid? Eid translates to “the festival of breaking the fast”, marking it as a celebration of the ending of the month-long fast of Ramadan. This festival is a particularly significant time for Muslims in the UK and across the globe alike, enabling families to join together and partake in the celebration. After a month of abstinence and devotion to Allah (SWT), the festival allows Muslims to reward themselves with what they previously gave up in the name of their faith.

Ramadan is the month in which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was initially presented with the Holy Qur’an. During Ramadan, Muslims will fast during daylight hours and engage in much self-reflection. They will also spend much of their time studying the Qur’an in order to deepen their spiritual connection with Allah (SWT). This month of devotion and reflection is finalised with Eid ul-Fitr, creating an opportunity for loved ones to come together and appreciate their blessings.

‘The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So, whoever sights the new moon of the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey - then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and wants for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that to which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful.’
  

- Quran 2:185

When is Eid ul-Fitr 2023?

You may be pondering, “when is Eid in the UK?”; well, there is no fixed date that recurs on a yearly basis. Instead, the time in which Eid occurs is dependent on the sighting of the moon. Despite this, it always follows the propitious and holy month of Ramadan. The sighting of the moon will differ from country to country, so your local Mosque will be on hand to confirm the fixed dates of Eid for the coming year.

Why is Eid Celebrated?

It takes much devotion and self-control to refrain from drinking and eating between the hours of sunlight and sunset. This is all in the name of strengthening a spiritual relationship with Allah (SWT), which is all aided by worship and prayer to commemorate the revelation of the Qur’an. Therefore, Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated to commemorate the month’s successes.

This celebration is comprised of spending time with loved ones whilst feasting on the food that Allah (SWT) has provided.

Ways to Celebrate Eid

Ahead of the festivities taking place, many rituals need to be followed so that Allah (SWT) is properly thanked.

The term Fajr refers to dawn prayers, which are to be done with your family ahead of the ‘ghusl’ cleansing to purify your entire body. Once the ablution or cleansing has taken place, preparations for the day ahead can then begin. These preparations include wearing the finest clothes and visiting the Mosque. The traditional Eid greeting is “Eid Mubarak”, which translates to “blessed festival/feast”; however, this can also bear similarity to “happy Eid” or “blessed celebration”. After greetings have been shared, Eid prayers can commence.

With this being said, before Eid prayers can begin, a charity donation needs to be made. This is called Zakat ul-Fitr, or Fitrana, which is given to the needy, allowing them to partake in festivities.

Another tradition includes the exchanging of gifts amongst close family members and children, whilst sweet snacks are also made available. As a result, this can be described as the “Sweet Eid”. Alternatively, it can sometimes be described as the “Lesser Eid”, as it’s considered to have less significance in the calendar than Eid ul-Adha.

‘Worship God and join none with Him in worship, and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, the poor, the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet) ...  Verily, God does not like such as are proud and boastful.’

  - Quran 4:36

Preparing for Eid ul-Fitr

What are your plans for Ramadan and Eid ul-Fitr this year? Muslim communities across the globe will anticipate these celebrations with enthusiasm through donations and other provisions. From Zakat donations to Zakat ul-Fitr, you can make your life-changing donations in the name of your faith.

Head over to our Zakat calculator to calculate your owed Zakat; otherwise, you can use our Zakat ul-Fitr page to contribute your Fitrana.

 

‘Those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, and establish regular prayers and regular charity, will have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.’ 

 - Quran 2:277