There are two separate Eid festivals in the Islamic Calendar: Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha. Eid ul-Fitr is the first of these two festivals and signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal (the 10th month of the Islamic Calendar). Meanwhile, Eid ul-Adha follows the Hajj pilgrimage and Qurbani in Dhul Hijjah on the 10th day of the 12th month. While the two festivals have similar-sounding names, they represent very different celebrations. You can discover more about Eid ul-Fitr below.

What Does Eid-ul-Fitr Mean?

The word Eid means “the festival of breaking the fast”, as it marks the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan. This is among the most significant times of year for Muslims, encouraging families to come together to eat, celebrate and share joyous moments.

When is Eid ul-Fitr 2025 in the UK?

Since the Islamic Year follows the lunar calendar, there’s no fixed 2025 Eid ul-Fitr date. The Eid ul-Fitr 2025 moonsighting is set to fall on either Sunday, 30 March or Monday, 31 March, but these dates are subject to change and will be confirmed closer to the time.

Why is Eid ul-Fitr Celebrated?

Fasting during Ramadan requires a significant amount of effort and self-control. Therefore, Eid ul-Fitr commemorates the hard work and success of the month. Allah (SWT) gifts believers with their blessed day to commend them for their undying devotion to Him.

How Do You Celebrate Eid ul-Fitr?

Before Muslims can celebrate Eid ul-Fitr, they must first perform a series of prescribed rituals to express gratitude to Allah (SWT).

Many prepare to attend their place of prayer. This involves taking a bath or “ghusl” to purify the entire body. They’re also encouraged to put on perfume and dress in their best clothing. If the weather allows for it, the Eid prayer takes place outside, with special supplications and Eid greetings exchanged between the believers. Ahead of the Eid prayer, Muslims are required to make their Zakat ul-Fitr (Fitrana) payment, and this is given to those in need so that they can participate in the joy of Eid. Learn more about Zakat-ul-Fitr and donate Fitrana here.

Eid is an opportunity to reflect on the blessed month of Ramadan and celebrate with loved ones. Typical Eid celebrations include exchanging gifts and enjoying special treats and delicacies.

Getting Ready for Eid ul-Fitr in the UK

Global Rahmah Foundation is here to help you prepare for Eid ul-Fitr with our Fitrana Appeal. Donate before Eid ul-Fitr 2025 to ensure that those in need can enjoy this blessed day, too. For more information about fitrana or any other appeals, get in touch on 0161 302 7888 and speak to a member of our team.