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Eid al-Fitr 2024 is one of the most anticipated days in the Islam religion and culture. It is celebrated according to their Hijri calendar, a lunar calendar of twelve months. These days mark the end of its nine months, which is Ramadan, and its tenth month’s first day, Shawwal.

Eid Al-Fitr: The Islamic Holiday

Although the religion and practices of the Islam people have been around for a long time, there are still individuals who are curious and seek to know more about their traditions. Eid Al-Fitr is the Islamic holiday that follows Ramadan, during which participating followers break their fasting period.

What is Eid Al-Fitr Celebrated For?

This holiday in the Muslim religion celebrates the end of their fasting period. During Ramadan, Muslims fast every day from sunrise to sundown. After their fasting period, Muslims gather as a community and offer a prayer service in the morning. Delicious meals, valued time, and conversations with friends and family follow it. Before the traditions begin, a Zakat al-Fitr is collected and distributed to those in need of it and ensures that everyone can partake in the festivities. 

At the end of the Ramadan season, Muslims celebrate by having a special meal during the daytime. In fact, it is considered their first daytime meal in a month. In these celebrations, Muslims wear their best clothing and offer kids gifts. Moreover, Muslims give money to charity during Eid al-Fitr in 2024 and other years.

What are the Possible Dates for Eid al-Fitr 2024?

Since Islam follows the Hijir calendar, this year’s celebrations will begin on April 9 and end on April 12. The next religious celebrations for the Muslim community will be on June 15 through 16 for Arafat Day and Eid al Adha, respectively. 

What are Ramadan Dates for 2024?

The season of Ramadan begins on March 10, with March 11 as the first day for fasting, with a final day of fasting on April 9. The first fasting day of Ramadan is typically a holiday for predominantly Muslim countries.

The final ten days of Ramadan are vital to the entire season. The Night of Destiny (Laylat al-Qadr) is the holiest and most blessed night of the year, typically during this time. Moreover, the holiest night is believed to occur on an odd-numbered evening, which may be on the season’s 21st, 23rd, 25th, or 27th night.

Islam believes that on this specific night, Allah forgives the wrongdoings of His followers. Numerous individuals who practice the religion stay up all night and read their holy book, the Quran, to ask for Allah’s forgiveness and blessings.

Also Read: GUIDE: Holidays in February 2024 Philippines

Is Eid al-fitr a Holiday in the Philippines?

Although there are no official holiday announcements for Eid al-Fitr in the Philippines in 2024, Filipinos are still expected to respect the season and fasting traditions of the Muslim community. However, the holiday will be officially proclaimed once the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos recommends this holiday to the Office of the President. 

Is Eid al-Fitr the Same Every Year?

These periods in Islam follow their twelve-month lunar calendars that indicate the Eid Al-Fitr change dates every year. During this time, Muslims attend their local mosques for special prayers and follow traditions with practicing friends and family.

What is the Difference Between Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Adha translates into “feast of the sacrifice” and is celebrated two months after Eid al-Fitr. During this period, numerous Muslims participate in the Hajj pilgrimage. This specific period in the Muslim religion coincides with the end of Hajj, the religion’s annual Mecca pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. It is an opportunity for those who can afford to take and perform. However, Eid al-Adha is a period celebrated by the entire community, no matter where they are.

The Importance of Eid al-Fitr to the Islam Community

As mentioned earlier, this holiday is the celebration of the Muslim community, where many of those participating in Ramadan break their fast. This season is paramount to them since it allows them to show their devotion to faith and become closer to Allah. This tradition began with the Prophet Muhammad and is celebrated by Muslims worldwide for three days. However, this depends on the country, and fasting is prohibited on Eid al-Fitr.

Many Muslims celebrate this season by participating in prayers at their local mosques. Other traditions include:

• Wearing new clothing.
• Eating sweets on the way to the mosque.
• Reciting brief prayers known as “takbeer”.

Final Thoughts

Eid al-Fitr in 2024 is a period of celebration for the Muslim community after a month of fasting in the Ramadan season. The religious holidays are a period of self-reflection with the aim of being closer to Allah through faith. Moreover, it is a time to celebrate the sacrifices made during the fasting season by spending valued time with family and friends.

Sources: (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6)

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