One Pakistan's biggest holidays is Eid Al-Fitr, which is also called Feast of Breaking the Fast. It is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide that marks the end of the Islamic holy month of fasting, Ramadan. Eid Al-Fitr falls on the first days of the month of Shawwal. It is a day when Muslims all around the world show unity.
Every Muslim country has its own customs and traditions for Eid Al-Fitr. In Pakistan, people make sure to wear new clothes to get ready for Eid prayer. It is obligatory to give charity to the needy and poor on behalf of each family member before Eid day or at least Eid prayer. This charity is called Zakat Al-Fitr. It allows everyone in the community to enjoy Eid and share the joy.
For Eid prayer, Pakistanis gather in large open areas to pray. After prayer, they meet and greet each other with a traditional hug of friendship. Before going back home, more charity is given to the needy and poor. This, however, is only customary and optional. On the way back, families buy sweets, balloons for kids and gifts for other family members. It is a joyous time of giving and receiving.
At home, families enjoy a special Eid breakfast with various types of desserts and sweets including the traditional Eid dessert Sheer Khurma. This dessert is made out of vermicelli, milk, butter, dry fruits and dates.
Many traditions are focused on the enjoyment of children. One tradition is adults giving out money in cash called Eidi as a gift to young children. Children are allowed to use this money in any way they want. Games and outdoor activities are enjoyed all day by people from all ages. Pakistanis usually visit their elder relatives and then friends all day to share the joy and happiness. Some people go to parks, rivers or lake fronts to enjoy and relax.
At night, families rejoin to enjoy a special Eid dinner and plan how to celebrate the second and third day of Eid.
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