Eid-al-Fitr in Australia

Ramadan is the holiest month in Muslim calendar. During Ramadan, the Muslims fast from sun up to sun down on a daily basis. It is the holy month of prayer, reflection and forgiveness as well. Muslims renew their faith and strengthen their spiritual ties with God or Allah during Ramadan. At the end of the Ramadan period, a joyous activity happens to break one month of fasting and sacrificing. This celebration is called Eid-al-Fitr or Festival of Breaking the Fast.

When is Eid-al-Fitr Celebrated in Australia?

Celebration of the Eid-al-Fitr immediately follows the end of the Ramadan period. Shawwal is the month that follows holiest month of Ramadan. The celebration of Eid-al-Fitr in Australia falls on first day of Shawwal month.

What Happens during Eid-al-Fitr in Australia?

Towards the end of the Ramadan, Muslim community continues to fast and sacrifice. Along with this, they also donate foods, essential goods, and money to needy. On the celebration of Eid-al-Fitr, Muslim community extends their assistance to the poor. Most of the Muslim groups or Muslim families invite poor to partake on the festive foods they prepared for celebration. There are also Muslims who donate foods like rice, grain, and bread so the poor can have a good meal in the celebration of Eid-al-Fitr in Australia.

On the day of Eid-al-Fitr, Muslims in Australia go to their mosques to pray Eid prayer, to reflect and to meditate. The religious leader also read scriptures and share stories to the attendees of Eid-al-Fitr celebration.

Muslims wear their finest clothes and take the effort to decorate and beautify their homes to welcome the coming of Eid-al-Fitr. It is also the best opportunity for them to gather their family and friends and partake on the festive food they cooked for Eid-al-Fitr celebration.

Is Eid-al-Fitr a Holiday in Australia?

Eid-al-Fitr is a very important event for Muslims. In Australia, Eid-al-Fitr is not declared as a holiday. The private and public offices are open to service the people. Students also go to their classes, and employees proceed to their respective jobs. Commercial establishments are also open, such as banks, restaurants, and shops. Muslims that operate businesses in Australia may opt to close on the day of Eid-al-Fitr so they can join in various activities for the day. Employees may also ask permission to leave from if they want to participate in the Eid-al-Fitr activities. There is also a possibility of traffic congestion in areas near mosques. This is because of the great volume of Muslims who go to the mosques to attend Eid-al-Fitr activities.