The two Eids represent the most blessed and happy times of the year for a believer. They are considered a gift from God, designed to both reward them for some kind of effort, and celebrate their connection to Him. Therefore it is important that Muslims continue their remembrance of God throughout these days.

With this in mind, there are some practices of the Prophet (SAW) - called ‘sunnahs’ - that Muslims aim to follow, in addition to having a good feast and a celebration with their family and friends.

Have a look at some of the key events that occur on the day of Eid:

1. The Islamic day actually runs from sunset to sunset- so once Eid is announced on the final day of fasting, Muslims will begin to prepare for Eid. Special dua’s can be said called ‘Takbir,’ which means to proclaim the greatness of God, in some way.
2. The morning of Eid begins with the dawn prayer: Fajr. Muslims will wake up early to pray, and many will have a date or three to eat. This signifies the fact that today they are no longer fasting and will instead be the day of the feasting! Yum!
3. Taking a bath and wearing new (or your best) clothes is a must. People also take the opportunity to wear fancy clothing from their own cultural heritage. You will find many colours and countries represented at the mosque for Eid prayers.
4. Zakat-ul-fitr is a mandatory charity that must be given before the morning Eid prayers. It is given to the poor so that everyone can enjoy the blessings of the day.
5. Mid-morning is the time of the Eid prayer. It is a special prayer that brings the whole community together. In the UK it is usually held in the local mosque, but it is actually a sunnah to read it in a gathering place outside. As you can imagine, the weather often gets in the way of fulfilling this practice. Everyone should attend; young and old, male and female. It is followed by a short sermon from the Imam and then ends with much hugging and shaking of hands.
6. After the Eid prayers, families will return home to greet their loved ones. Guests will arrive throughout the day and sweets and treats will be given to them, as well as the neighbours. Traditional Eid sweets could be anything from your own cultural heritagel rich and sticky baklawas or juicy and sweet gulab jamuns- whatever your food of choice, it is sure to be delicious!
7. Gifts are often exchanged and traditionally, children will collect money from different members of the family. Families will stay together all day, talking and eating- enjoying spending time together and sharing love for the day.

If you are hosting the Eid celebrations in your home then consider the range of decorations and tableware that we have to offer on our website.