Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr as Middle East conflict casts a shadow | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleMariam FamWednesday 18 March 2026 08:03 GMTWhat is Eid Al-Fitr?Muslims globally are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.This year's festivities are notably overshadowed by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and heightened concerns over immigration and anti-Muslim rhetoric in the United States.Eid al-Fitr, meaning “the feast of breaking the fast”, is an Islamic holiday following a lunar calendar, with this year's first day expected on or around 20 March.Celebrations worldwide include traditions such as the 'exodus' to hometowns in Indonesia, open house visits and green packet gifts in Malaysia, and cash gifts (eidiya) and special cookies in Egypt.In the United States, diverse Muslim communities gather for Eid prayers and festivals featuring activities for children and families.In fullWhat is Eid al-Fitr and how is it celebrated around the world?Thank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in