Muslims worldwide are gearing up to celebrate Eid al-Fitr

 Muslims worldwide are gearing up to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, also known as the "festival of breaking the fast," which is one of the two major Muslim holidays.

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam, during which Muslims fast from sunrise to sundown, engage in prayer, and reflect on themselves. The start of Eid is anticipated to be on Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon.

When does Ramadan end in 2024?

Experts suggest Wednesday is more likely due to the solar eclipse occurring on Monday. Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler informed USA TODAY that since the eclipse will occur early afternoon, the moon phase will be no more than 5 to 6 hours old at sunset, making it impossible to spot the crescent moon that evening.

Eid Al-Fitr - When and How is it Celebrated? Eid begins immediately after Ramadan concludes. Muslims commence the three-day holiday by participating in morning prayers on the first day of Eid. Families come together for celebrations, visiting relatives, and enjoying elaborate meals featuring traditional dishes. It's customary to wear new attire and exchange gifts, especially for children who may receive presents or cash.

Muslims also fulfill zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory donation of food or its monetary equivalent made before Ramadan ends. Throughout the holiday, people exchange greetings of Eid Mubarak, meaning Blessed Eid, and Happy Eid.

What is Ramadan? Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, commemorating the Quran's revelation to Prophet Muhammad. It commences and concludes with the sighting of the crescent moon.

The month-long observance concludes with Eid al-Fitr, although some Muslims may observe subdued festivities due to conflicts, such as the war in Gaza.

Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan? Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, fundamental obligations for Muslims. During Ramadan, adherents abstain from food, drink, smoking, and sexual relations from dawn to dusk.

Are there Eid celebrations in North Jersey? The Eid Committee of New Jersey, representing various North Jersey mosques, organizes one of the region's largest Eid prayer services. This year, prayers will be held at the Teaneck Armory on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at 8:30 a.m.

The Islamic Center of Passaic County will host an Eid Night Bazaar on Tuesday from 8 p.m. to midnight at its Paterson campus on 152 Derrom Ave. The event will feature vendors offering merchandise, clothing, street food, and desserts, alongside a community prayer in solidarity with Gaza. Twenty percent of proceeds will be donated to Gaza.

Eid al-Fitr is one of two major Muslim holidays. The other, Eid al-Adha or the "feast of the sacrifice," occurs in the final month of the Islamic calendar. It commemorates Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God and will take place this year in June.

The month-long observance concludes with Eid al-Fitr, although some Muslims may observe subdued festivities due to conflicts, such as the war in Gaza.