Eid-al-Fitr: Ramadan's Sweet Ending
Eid-al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the month of fasting. In many Muslim communities, Eid-al-Fitr is called Sweet Eid for the endless sweet things made special for the holiday. This sweet holiday begins once the new moon is sighted and the new month, Shawwal, begins and so do the cultural festivities! In many places, the festivities can last for three days!
On the morning of Eid, Muslims clean their bodies and put on their finest clothing. Some even decorate their hands with elaborate and beautiful henna patterns.
When everyone is ready, they head out to the mosque or a large outdoor location to give charity and gather together for the Eid prayers.
At the end of the Eid prayers, families sit down together for a festive spread of delicious dishes and sweet desserts.
Throughout the Middle East and Israel, one of the most popular sweets for Eid is the Maamoul – an ancient cookie made from wheat flour or semolina with a fragrant date, walnut, or pistachio filling. Yummy!
