Happy Eid al-Fitr, Brooklyn!
Eid al-Fitr is the three-day holiday that celebrates the conclusion of Ramadan — the holy month of spiritual introspection, generosity and family time during which many Muslims will abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset.
The celebration of Eid al-Fitr usually lasts for three days and begins with the sighting of the new moon. This year, Eid al-Fitr will begin at sundown on April 21.
On the morning of the first day, Muslims will gather for a special prayer known as Salat al-Eid. After the prayer, families and friends come together to share a festive meal, exchange gifts and greetings.
The holiday revolves around the theme of togetherness, happiness and acts of charity and kindness. It is a time for Muslims to express their gratitude to God for giving them the strength and perseverance to complete the month-long fast. Eid is also a time for Muslims to come together in solidarity, reflect on the blessings of the past month and look forward to the opportunities and challenges of the year ahead.
Many people will get new clothes for the special occasion, as every person wants to look and feel their best. Presents are also exchanged during this holiday and little kids receive special gifts called Eidi — usually money and toys — from the grown-ups in their lives.
The holiday was marked as an official New York City public school holiday in 2016.
Eid Mubarak!
