What date is Eid al-Fitr 2021? Date Ramadan is set to end, its meaning and how it’s celebrated
While the celebration comes around a month after the beginning of Ramadan, the date also depends on the sighting of the crescent moon.
The holy month of Ramadan is taking place this month and will see 1.6 billion Muslims around the world spend the 30 days reflecting on their faith.
Observers will begin a month of fasting that will see them abstain from food and water from sunrise to sunset.
The aim of Ramadan is to promote peace while giving thanks to all they have.
The holy month – which is one of the five pillars of Islam – will begin on Tuesday 13 April this year.
When is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr will fall on Wednesday 12 May and Thursday 13 May this year, subject to sightings of the moon.
While the celebration comes around a month after the beginning of Ramadan, the date also depends on the sighting of the crescent moon.
The moon will not be visible at the same time across the world, so countries will celebrate the occasion over two days.
How is Eid al-Fitr celebrated?
Eid celebrations will begin with prayers at dawn, which usually take place at a mosque, although lockdown restrictions may impact the number of people allowed in a place of worship.
The holy day is heavily focused on family and friends, with many in the community meeting up to share food and stories.
People perform Zakat al-fitr, and give to the poor – be it donating money, food or time.
Europe’s biggest Eid celebration, Eid in the Park, which takes place in Birmingham, has already been cancelled as it does not comply with Covid rules.
What is Ramadan?
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam – the fundamental rules all Muslims follow – along with the Shahadah (declaration of faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity) and the Hajj pilgrimage.
It is when Muslims are required to spend 30 days observing fast during daylight hours, as a means of celebrating and reflecting on their faith.
Ramadan is based on the cycle of the moon, meaning that the dates are different from year to year, and cannot be predicted precisely.
However, this year the holy month began on Tuesday 13 April, and will end on Wednesday 12 May or Thursday 13 May.
During Ramadan there is an increased offering of the Salat, with Muslims giving thanks to Allah and reflecting on their lives.
Beyond fasting, Muslims are also encouraged to read the Quran, with the holy text recited at the Tarawih, special nightly prayers held throughout the month.
Ramadan literally means “scorching heat” in Arabic, and marks the month when the Quran is said to have been revealed to Prophet Muhammad by God via the archangel Gabriel in 610 AD