Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated at the end of Ramadan following the sighting of the Shawaal crescent on the previous evening. The thin crescent moon may be seen after sunset once the sky is sufficiently dark. Most people think that Saudi Arabia adopts the actual sighting of the crescent as the basis to start Islamic months. However, in modern times Saudi Arabia has adopted astronomical calculations in preference to visual sightings. At its conclusion Muslims perform a a special collective morning prayer.
Many communities hold bazaars following the prayers.
Celebration starts at the end of the Eid with a spirit of joyous achievement by four days of celebration called eid al-fitr, the feast of the Breaking of the Fast. Customarily, it is a time for family reunion and the favored holiday for children who receive new clothing and gifts from family members and friends. Copyright 2000 by Fowler's Internet Library. All Rights are Reserved.