5 facts you might not know about Eid al-Fitr

What Are 5 Surprising Facts About Eid al-Fitr?

Over one billion Muslims around the world will celebrate Eid al-Fitr in a few days. Here are five facts you might not know about this joyous occasion:

1. The Celebration Marks the End of Fasting

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset to honour the month when the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Mohammed. This prolonged fasting isn't just about food; it also includes abstaining from drinking any liquids (including water), taking medications, smoking, and having sex. Eid al-Fitr celebrates the end of Ramadan and, consequently, the end of fasting. In fact, "Eid al-Fitr" translates literally to "The Feast of Fast-Breaking." To mark this occasion, families come together for a lavish feast, often exchanging eid gifts, including halal hampers filled with delicious treats.

2. It Starts at Different Times Across the World

Eid al-Fitr doesn’t begin until the new moon appears in the sky. Traditionally, and still today for many Muslims, the festival starts when the first sliver of a waxing crescent moon is seen. This means that across the world, Eid al-Fitr can begin at different times and even on different days, depending on the location. Some Muslims choose to celebrate Eid when the new moon appears over Mecca instead of their local regions to unify the timing.

3. It’s Held on Different Dates Every Year

The Islamic calendar follows lunar cycles, unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is based on the solar cycle. Since lunar months are slightly shorter, Eid al-Fitr moves about 10 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar. In 2025, Eid al-Fitr is expected to begin on the evening of Sunday, March 30, and will continue until the evening of Monday, March 31. The festival traditionally lasts for three days, but depending on how it falls on the calendar, celebrations can extend throughout the week.

4. What Do Muslims Do on Eid al-Fitr?

Before heading out for morning prayers, Muslims perform a cleansing ritual called ghusl. They then put on new or their finest clothes, often accessorized with intricate henna designs. Some opt for traditional attire, while others choose modern outfits. After prayers at mosques or outdoor locations, many visit the graves of loved ones to pray and clean the gravesites. It is also a time for feasting with family and exchanging eid gifts, such as eid hampers, halal gifts, and eid present for wife.

5. Greetings and Gifts Are a Big Part of Eid

The most common greeting on Eid al-Fitr is "Eid Mubarak!", meaning "Have a blessed Eid!" After a month of sacrifice, Eid al-Fitr is a time of abundance—both in food and generosity. Giving eid gifts is a long-standing tradition, especially for children. These gifts, called "Eidi," can include money, home goods, flowers, or delicious treats found in eid gift hampers. Thoughtful presents such as halal food hampers, eid gift boxes, and eid present for wife are exchanged among loved ones.

Celebrate Eid with Thoughtful Gifts

At Hay Hampers, we understand the importance of sharing joy on Eid al-Fitr. That’s why we offer a specially curated selection of halal hampers, perfect for celebrating with family and friends. Whether you're looking for eid hampers, halal hamper ideas, or a special eid gift for wife, our range of islamic hampers ensures you’ll find the perfect present to mark this special occasion. As the saying goes: "Tahaabu, tahaadu" (Give gifts to spread love to one another). This Eid al-Fitr, make your celebrations even more memorable with delightful eid gift hampers and heartfelt eid presents!