The first Eid was celebrated in 624 CE by the Prophet Muhammad with his friends. It is related after the victory of the battle of Jang-e-Badar. Muslims are not only celebrating the end of fasting, but thanking Allah for the help and strength that he gave them throughout the previous month to help them practise self-control.
The festival begins when the first sight of the new moon is seen in the sky. Muslims in most countries rely on news of an official sighting, rather than looking at the sky themselves. The celebratory atmosphere is increased by everyone wearing best or new clothes, and decorating their homes.
There are special services out of doors and in mosques, processions through the streets, and of course, a special celebratory meal - eaten during daytime. The first daytime meal Muslims will have had in a month. Eid is also a time of forgiveness, and making amends
During Eid-ul-Fitr Muslims dress in their finest clothes, give gifts to children and spend time with their friends and family. At Eid it is obligatory to give a set amount of money to charity to be used to help poor people buy new clothes and food so they too can celebrate.
Adapted by Nawawi from BBC's article,
