How Eid is Celebrated in Different Countries and Cultures Around the World

Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, is one of the most significant religious festivals celebrated by Muslims all over the world. This festival marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting. Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, commonly referred to as Eid, with great enthusiasm and joy. Although the basic rituals and traditions of Eid are the same across the globe, there are some unique customs and practices that vary from country to country. In this blog, we will explore how Eid is celebrated in different countries and cultures around the world.

Eid in UAE

Eid is one of the most significant events in the UAE. It marks the end of Ramadan, and the preparations begin several days before the festival. People decorate their homes with ornaments and lights, buy new clothes, and prepare traditional sweets. On the morning of Eid, Muslims gather for their prayers. After prayers, people exchange gifts, share meals, and participate in public festivities such as fireworks, cultural shows, and carnivals. 

Eid marks a time for families, friends, and communities to come together and celebrate with a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Charity is an essential part of the celebration in the UAE, and Muslims are encouraged to give to the less fortunate during Ramadan and Eid. The government, as well as various charitable organizations, distribute food, clothes, and money to ensure that everyone can participate in the festivities.

Eid around the world

Eid in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, Eid celebrations start with the sighting of the new moon. Muslims offer Eid prayers in mosques or large open spaces, and then greet each other by saying “Eid Mubarak.” The day is marked by feasting and spending time with family and friends. People visit their relatives and friends, and have a feast. They also give gifts to children and the elderly. Saudis also participate in traditional activities such as falconry, camel races, and traditional dances. Other festivities include fireworks, cultural shows, and other entertainment activities.

Eid in Turkey

In Turkey, Eid is called Şeker Bayramı, which means “Sugar Feast.” This name reflects the sweet treats that are an integral part of the celebration. Turkish people start the day by washing and putting on their new clothes. They then visit their elders to seek their blessings and forgiveness. Children receive sweets and money from their elders. Turkish people also prepare traditional dishes such as baklava and halva.

Eid in New Zealand

Eid is celebrated in New Zealand with morning prayers in mosques or outdoor locations, followed by community gatherings and feasts where families exchange gifts and share traditional foods. Recently, public Eid festivals have become more popular in major cities such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. These festivals feature cultural performances, food stalls, and activities for children. In Auckland, the festivities begin with morning prayers and cleansing, followed by a fun-filled event at Eden Park featuring carnival activities such as mechanical bulls, human foosball, and food vendors selling delicious treats from around the region. These celebrations reflect a blend of Muslim cultural traditions and the wider New Zealand community, demonstrating the country’s diversity and inclusiveness.

Eid al-Fitr in Indonesia

In Indonesia, Eid is called Hari Raya Idul Fitri. The celebration begins with the takbir, a call to prayer, and the Eid prayer is usually held in large open spaces. After the prayer, people visit their relatives and friends, and seek forgiveness from each other. In Indonesia, people also have the tradition of mudik, which means returning to one’s hometown for the holidays. The mudik tradition is so important that the government provides free transportation to make it easier for people to travel.

Eid al-Fitr in Pakistan

In Pakistan, Eid is called Eid ul-Fitr. The celebration starts with the sighting of the new moon. On the day of Eid, people wear new clothes and offer Eid prayers in mosques or open spaces. After the prayer, people visit their relatives and friends and exchange gifts. Pakistani Muslims also prepare traditional dishes such as biryani, kheer, and sheer khurma to mark the celebrations.

Eid in Iceland

Although Muslims in Iceland are still a minority, the community is growing. They participate in the dusk-to-dawn fast during Ramadan leading up to the unique celebration of Eid. This celebration takes place in one of Reykjavik’s few mosques where guests enjoy an international buffet of delicious foods from various cuisines. Since Iceland’s summer days are longer than usual, Muslims fast up to 22 hours a day. However, Islamic scholars have suggested breaking the fast based on the timing of sunrise and sunset from the nearest country or observing Saudi Arabia’s timezone. Children wear their best clothes and exchange gifts during the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr.

Eid in Egypt

In Egypt, Eid is called Eid el-Fitr. The day is marked by feasting and spending time with family and friends. Egyptians prepare special dishes such as fatta, which is a mixture of rice, meat, and bread, and kunafa, a dessert made with cheese and syrup. Egyptians also have the tradition of buying new clothes and sweets for their children.

Eid al-Fitr in the United States

In the United States, Eid is celebrated by Muslims from diverse cultural backgrounds. Muslims offer Eid prayers in mosques or open spaces and then celebrate with family and friends. American Muslims also participate in community service projects to help the less fortunate. Eid celebrations in the United States are marked by a fusion of cultural traditions, such as wearing traditional clothing, listening to music, and enjoying traditional dishes.

Eid al-Fitr is a festival that is celebrated by Muslims all over the world. Although the basic rituals and traditions of Eid are the same across the globe, each country and culture has its unique customs and practices. Whether it is preparing traditional dishes, buying new clothes, or visiting relatives, Eid is a time of joy, forgiveness, and celebration. If you are looking for a unique Eid gift to send your loved ones, the floral experts at Darcey can help.  We create innovative floral designs from the finest flowers available. From Ramadan flower arrangements and hand-tied anniversary bouquets to a stunning floral box for your Eid celebration, we’ve got you covered.

As Muslims all over the world gather to celebrate Eid, the message of peace, love, and harmony echoes loud and clear. Eid Mubarak to all!