Muslims Prepare For Eid Al-Fitr Celebrations In 2025

As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims around the world prepare to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, also known as Uraza Bayram. In 2025, Ramadan began on the evening of February 28 and will conclude on the evening of March 29, marking a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. The last day of fasting falls on March 29, and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr will commence the following day, March 30, with festive gatherings and prayers.

During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and intimate relationships from dawn until dusk. This period is dedicated to deepening one's spiritual connection with God, reading the Quran, and performing good deeds. The Islamic calendar is lunar, resulting in Ramadan shifting approximately 11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.

The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a communal meal known as iftar, where families and friends gather to break their fast together. The festivities of Eid al-Fitr begin at sunset on March 30, and the day is filled with various traditions and customs. On the morning of Eid, Muslims perform a special prayer, known as Eid prayer, in mosques or large halls. It is customary to visit relatives, friends, and neighbors, exchanging greetings and well-wishes.

On this joyous occasion, children receive gifts and sweets, and families prepare elaborate meals to celebrate the end of fasting. The traditional greeting exchanged among Muslims during this time is "Eid Mubarak," which translates to "Blessed Eid." Special attention is also given to helping the poor and needy, as it is a significant aspect of the celebration.

According to Imam Kanatali Takirov, Eid al-Fitr is traditionally celebrated on the first day of the month of Shaval, following the conclusion of Ramadan. The day starts with the performance of a special prayer known as ait-namaz, which is recited at dawn. After the prayer, families gather around a festive table, known as dastarkhan, filled with delicious dishes.

Imam Takirov emphasizes the importance of being in a good mood on this day and making gifts for loved ones as a way to sincerely congratulate them on the completion of the fast. He also highlights the necessity of paying fitr-sadaka, a mandatory charitable contribution given for each family member before Eid prayer. In 2025, the amount of fitr-sadaka in Kazakhstan is set at 655 tenge, which is calculated based on the average price of two kilograms of flour.

"Fitr-sadaka is given to make up for any shortcomings in one’s fasting and to thank the Almighty while helping those in need," Imam Takirov explains. He advises that this charitable contribution should ideally be made during Ramadan or the day before Eid prayer to ensure it is considered valid.

On the day of Eid, it is customary for Muslims to wear new clothes if possible and to visit mosques for prayers. Imam Takirov reminds that, according to Islamic tradition, it is customary to eat dates before going out for the Eid prayer, symbolizing the end of fasting and the beginning of the festive days.

In addition to the spiritual preparations, families are encouraged to engage in household chores, including cleaning, preparing traditional dishes, inviting guests, and seeking forgiveness from loved ones. The celebration of Eid al-Fitr serves as a time for spiritual purification, achieving inner harmony, and reinforcing family ties.

As Muslims around the world prepare for this significant celebration, the spirit of generosity and community shines through. The holiday teaches the importance of caring for those in need, supporting those who are struggling, and strengthening familial bonds. Eid al-Fitr is not just a celebration of the end of fasting; it is a reminder of the values of compassion, charity, and community that are central to the faith.

In conclusion, the festivities of Eid al-Fitr will bring together families and communities in joy, gratitude, and reflection. With the end of Ramadan approaching, Muslims worldwide look forward to celebrating this blessed occasion with heartfelt prayers, delicious meals, and cherished traditions.