AFTER SUNDOWN, SATURDAY MARCH 29, Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr—a community-wide celebration that unfolds on the morning of SUNDAY, MARCH 30—at least, that’s the schedule most Muslim communities in the U.S. are counting on in 2025. However, since Ramadan traditionally is marked by sightings of the moon in regions around the world, dates could vary.

This is usually a joyous time, starting with communal prayers on the first morning of the Eid. At many mosques and Muslim community centers, huge trays of sweet treats are passed around—because just as fasting is mandated during the day during Ramadan, eating is required after the fast ends. The good cheer and good eating traditionally continues through gatherings with family and friends—and big daytime meals for the first time in a month.

One Muslim leader likes to say: “Think of American Thanksgiving extended across a couple of days.”

The grand holiday of Eid al-Fitr is referred to in many ways: the Sugar Feast, Sweet Festival, Feast of the Breaking of the Fast and Bajram, to name just a few.

Also varying around the world is the length of the Eid celebration, which can be observed for between one and three days—and some parts of the world continue the Eid for up to a week!

For example, in Pakistan this year, the government has announced a three-day holiday from March 31 through April 2. Pakistan Railway has reduced rates—and will be adding extra trains to its rail network—because so many people are eager to reach their hometowns to celebrate the Eid.

In Oman, the holiday will last through April 3.

In Egypt, the government helps communities to make room for the Eid prayers nationwide, since these gatherings typically overflow from mosques and spread across lawns, streets and fields. This year, the Egyptian government has listed 6,240 locations nationwide where these large gatherings can take place, according to Egypt Today.

However, in the United States, concerns about the Trump administration’s call to end “diversity” practices in public institutions has led to reports nationwide of changes and eliminated programs for this year’s Eid celebration. For example, Huston Public Media reports that the city’s public school system has decided not to allow an official day off school for Muslim students, after having just added that option in 2023.

EID AL-FITR TRADITIONS

Before sunrise on Eid al-Fitr, Muslims pray, bathe and put on their best clothing. A small breakfast—usually including dates—is consumed before heading to a nearby mosque (or, in some cases, an open square or field). In these locations, Muslims pray in unison; following prayers, feasting commences.

At that point, the annual obligation of Zakat (charitable giving) has been completed, and many adherents spend ample time enjoying the company of family and friends, attending carnivals and fireworks displays, giving gifts and expressing thanks to Allah.

Did you know? The first Eid was observed by the Prophet Muhammad in 624 CE. 

PREPARING FOR THIS SWEET TIME

Looking for Eid recipes?

Taste of Home magazine has just posted 25 recipes. This selection was edited for Taste of Home by internationally renowned food writer Saghar Setareh. She writes, in part: The recipes in this collection reflect the spirit of conviviality and the diversity of cultures that celebrate Eid al-Fitr. You’ll find Indian biryani, malfouf (Lebanese cabbage rolls) and Moroccan chickpea stew. Although many of these recipes are traditional, most have modern twists that make them more approachable to cook at home. I hope you enjoy these dishes and have a happy Eid!

Food & Wine magazine also has a tasty list of 25. These offerings include Lebanese Muhammara and Turkish Sigara Borek; vegetable dishes like Beet and Blood Orange Salad and Lentil Stew with Pomegranate Molasses from Turkey; and main dishes like a Lamb and Butternut Squash Tagine with Apricots inspired by North African traditions and Mahi Zafaroni (pan-seared fish with saffron and dried lime) with Persian ingredients. Among the desserts are Tunisian Kaak Warqa (rosewater-scented almond flour cookies) and Turkish Saffron, Pistachio, and Rose Petal Helva (semolina pudding).

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