Eid Al-Fitr 2016 Dates, Time in USA: Celebrations Take Place Around the World
Highlights, Traditions and Popular Venues for Muslims
Muslims all over the world gathered to celebrate Eid al-Fit'r, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Eid al-Fit'r is celebrated for three days, and per tradition, it begins at the sight of a new moon every year and differs from country to country. The celebration doesn't have historical roots and is more of a thanksgiving to Allah for the strength to endure the month-long fasting. This year, Eid started on July 6 for most countries.
After all the attacks in Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Turkey, Syria, Jordan, Yemen and Lebanon during the days of Ramadan, Muslims were cautious to celebrate Eid. A few people expressed mixed emotions about the holidays.
"I'm excited, although this Ramadan has had hardships, there's been a lot of reflection and opportunities to come together beyond social media bubbles. Eid is time to celebrate. Can't nobody steal my joy," Ny'imah Crystal Uqadah stated.
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"Having patience in times of mind-boggling attacks against Muslims by so-called Muslims has left a hefty burden on my heart and mind. Compiled with the growing threat from domestic terrorism that is anti-Islamic bigots attacking American Muslims," said Maher Ahmed as he struggles to stay patient every time he hears of what's happening during their holy month.
Aljazeera released photos of Muslims celebrating across the globe, from Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Baghdad, China, Philippines and other parts of the world.
In the United States, Eid is not a federal holiday. However, Muslims are permitted to alter their schedule in some schools and business organizations to observe the tradition. According to timeanddate.com, the Coalition for Muslim School Holidays, an organization composed of more than 80 religious groups, is in the process of making Eid Al-Fit'r and Eid al-Adha as days off in two New York schools.
The Eid celebration involves gathering and praying in places and large areas outside of mosques. This tradition is called Salat al-Eid. Also, gift exchanges are a usual happening during the holiday, as well as having new clothes for the occasion, which symbolizes spiritual renewal after the fast. Food stands as an essential part of Eid. The Morning Prayer is usually followed by their first meal in a month. Scrumptious meals are prepared for the feast that is shared by families.
Some take Eid Al-Fit'r as a moment of self-improvement and charity and a time for families to gather and break the fast together. It's a moment of sharing, connecting, forgiving past trespasses and thanksgiving for all the blessing they have received throughout the fasting and their lives as a whole.
