Eid Al-Fitr Celebrations Set Amid Global Crises

Eid al-Fitr, a joyous festival marking the end of Ramadan, is set to be celebrated on March 30, 2025, in Canada, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, while the exact date in India and the US hinges on the sighting of the crescent moon.

The festival is a time of celebration, prayer, and community, where families gather, exchange gifts, and give Zakat al-Fitr, a charity aimed at ensuring that no one is left behind during the festivities. In Canada, approximately 1.8 million Muslims are preparing for the occasion with excitement and joy.

The Islamic Forum of Canada announced that Eid al-Fitr will take place on March 30, 2025, concluding a month filled with fasting, prayer, and reflection. This festival, also referred to as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” holds significant importance within the Muslim community, both locally and worldwide.

As the holy month of Ramadan comes to an end, Muslims around the globe prepare for this special occasion. In Canada, cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal will witness vibrant celebrations filled with religious and cultural festivities. Thousands of Muslims are expected to gather in mosques, convention centers, and open fields for communal prayers, emphasizing unity and belonging.

In addition to religious observances, Canadian Muslims will embrace various cultural traditions to mark Eid. Families and friends will exchange warm greetings of “Eid Mubarak” while sharing traditional meals that showcase dishes from Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African cuisines. The celebration of Zakat al-Fitr plays a crucial role, as the wealthy donate money to ensure those in need can also partake in the festivities.

Across the border in the United States, the date of Eid will depend on local moon sightings or announcements made by Saudi Arabia. Muslims in the US typically rely on either local sightings or official announcements to determine the date of Eid, reflecting a shared sense of community across borders.

In the UAE and Saudi Arabia, the crescent moon is expected to be observed on March 29, 2025. If sighted, Eid will be celebrated on March 30. This timing aligns with the traditions of other countries in the region, where the moon sighting marks the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal.

As the celebrations approach, Islamic Relief's chief executive Waseem Ahmad shared a heartfelt message for Eid al-Fitr on March 29, 2025, reflecting on the challenges faced by many around the world during Ramadan. Ahmad highlighted the plight of Palestinian families in Gaza, where 1.6 million people live in makeshift shelters amid dire conditions.

He lamented the resumption of Israel's total siege, which has cut off essential supplies, including food and medicine, while electricity and water supplies have been severed. The death toll in Gaza has tragically risen to over 50,000, underscoring the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.

Ahmad also drew attention to the heartbreaking situation in Sudan, where more than 10 million people have fled their homes due to ongoing conflict. The humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by reports of mass rape, enslavement, and civilian massacres. Islamic Relief has worked tirelessly in both Gaza and Sudan to provide aid, despite the dangers faced by their staff.

One such tragic loss was that of Izzeldin Mohamed Juma, a dedicated Islamic Relief aid worker who was killed in Khartoum while protecting his family. Ahmad expressed gratitude to the organization's donors and partners for their support during Ramadan, which enabled them to distribute food to around 1 million vulnerable individuals in 32 countries.

As families around the world prepare to share the blessings of Eid, Ahmad called for prayers for those suffering in Gaza, Sudan, and elsewhere. He emphasized that despite the hardships, hope remains alive, and Islamic Relief will continue its efforts to alleviate suffering and bring joy through initiatives like the Eid Gifts Programme, which provides gifts to tens of thousands of vulnerable children.

In summary, Eid al-Fitr is not only a time for celebration but also a moment to reflect on the struggles faced by many. As communities come together to mark the end of Ramadan, the spirit of charity and compassion remains at the forefront, reminding everyone that no one should be left behind during this festive time.