Eid Around the World: Celebrations in Different Cultures

Eid-al-Fitr, which means the breaking off after the moon is sighted, is one of the two important holidays in the Muslim calendar along with Eid. Muslims all around the world observe their traditions to mark the event. ​​On the first day of Eid Al Fitr, however, the joyful mood that permeates the entire holy month of Ramadan reaches its peak degree of enthusiasm. Muslims don brand-new attire everywhere they go, exchange gifts, visit relatives, and, of course, savour culinary pleasures. In addition to the customary festivities, each nation has its own special Eid customs, which we have compiled for you.

Moris Media, the top digital marketing agency in India, serving PR and digital marketing needs across 40+ countries, presents an overview on how this auspicious festival is celebrated across the world. 

Indonesia

Eid al-Fitr is known as "Lebaran" in Indonesia, where it is observed for an entire month. Indonesia holds a lavish Eid Al Fitr celebration during this period. People consume traditional Indonesian foods like ketupat (rice cake) and opor ayam (chicken curry) and bake a traditional thousand-layer cake known as Lapis Legit. On the eve of Lebaran, large people fill the streets with drumming, firecrackers, and torchbearers. Malls are naturally crowded with people doing their last-minute shopping. People also use flags and lanterns of various colours to adorn their homes and streets.

Egypt

Eid al-Fitr  is known as "Eid el-Fitr" in Egypt, where it is celebrated with a variety of traditional foods such kahk, a sort of butter cookie, and, a layered pastry. Other dishes eaten during the holiday include fatta, a dish comprised of rice, pork, and bread, and kunafa, a cheese and syrup dessert. Egyptians also have a custom of buying their kids new clothes and treats.

Pakistan

In Pakistan, Eid al-Fitr  is known as "Chand Raat" and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. On the days of Eid, the streets are frequently packed with people, and local communities set up outdoor rides for the kids. Additionally, there are a lot of TV programs that are shown that are dedicated to the festivities. The mall, a park, or the beach are some popular places where people go to enjoy a fun-filled evening with their families. People put henna drawings on their hands, wear new attire, and decorate their homes with colourful lights. Markets stay open late the evening before Eid as shoppers look for gifts and traditional treats like sheer khurma, a delicious vermicelli pudding.

Saudi Arabia

Eid al-Fitr, also known as "Eid al-Saghir" in Saudi Arabia, is observed with a special morning prayer, followed by a day of eating and family get-togethers. As part of the Eid Al Fitr celebrations, the nation is lavishly decorated. Before the special Eid feast is served, families and friends typically gather to distribute gifts and sweets, and children frequently receive money from their elders. Another distinctive Eid custom in Saudi Arabia is that people anonymously drop large quantities of food and other goods at the gates of the less fortunate.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE's Eid celebrations are similar to those in Saudi Arabia in that they bring together families, friends, and communities to rejoice with a special fusion of tradition and contemporary. Muslims in the UAE are urged to help the less fortunate during Ramadan and Eid because charity is a crucial component of the holiday. To ensure that everyone can take part in the festivities, the government and numerous humanitarian organizations donate food, clothing, and cash.

Turkey

Eid al-Fitr is observed in Turkey as "Ramazan Bayram" and is marked by a three-day holiday. The term "bayram" is often used throughout the nation to describe all publicly observed holidays. The celebrations of Eid Bayram incorporate national customs. Families come together for a customary supper of lamb, rice, and baklava. The festivities come to a close with people greeting one another and sharing in the wonderful event.

Malaysia

Eid al-Fitr, also known as "Hari Raya Aidilfitri" in Malaysia, is observed by preparing traditional meals and eating a range of traditional cuisines including elita (oil lamps). Popular dishes include rending, lemang, ketupat, and Kuih Raya. Additionally, Malaysians play traditional games like the marble board game congkak and decorate their homes with bright lights.

India

Eid al-Fitr, also known as "Eid-ul-Fitr" in India, is observed with the consumption of traditional foods including biryani, kebabs, and sheer khurma. In India, this holiday is celebrated with great excitement. Many Muslims may visit relatives and friends to celebrate by giving presents and sharing a meal. 

Each nation and culture has its distinctive customs and practices, even though the fundamental Eid rites and traditions are the same everywhere. Muslims all over the world, and these particular traditions and practices only serve to highlight how remarkable it is. Whether it's visiting family, receiving gifts, or savouring traditional meals, Eid is a time to get together and celebrate the conclusion of Ramadan and the blessings of the past month.