Eid al-Fitr is coming. Here's what you should know about this festival

Eid al-Fitr is coming. Here's what you should know about 'the Muslim festival.

Eid al-Fitr is Arabic for "festival of the breaking of the fast." Some Muslims liken the day to "the Muslim version of Christmas." The festival marks the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset during Ramadan.

The holiday begins with a greeting: either "Eid Mubarak" or "Blessed Eid," both of which can be translated to "have a blessed holiday,"

Here's what you should know about the Islamic holy day:

How is Eid celebrated?

In the morning, Muslims gather at mosques and prayer areas to perform Eid Prayer and greet each other. The festival is celebrated by visiting friends and relatives, hosting food parties and sharing sweets. Children not only get new clothes and shoes but also receive cash gifts called “Eidi” from their elders and relatives.

The occasion is seen as a time of forgiveness and of giving thanks to Allah for helping people to complete their spiritual fasting. Many Muslims display their thanks by giving donations and food to those less fortunate than themselves.

How long is the Eid festival?

In most Muslim countries, the three days of Eid are observed as public and school holidays. This is not the case in the U.S., but many employers and schools allow time off for Muslim workers and children – particularly in areas with a high Muslim population.

How should you greet Muslims on Eid al-Fitr?

The most standard greetings on this occasion is "Eid Mubarak" which means "have a blessed Eid."

Generally, Muslims prepare for Eid prayer by dressing in new clothes.

With clothes being an important marker of Eid, some people wear traditional clothes from their culture, while others pick out something new to wear.

Muslims are also encouraged to eat something sweet, usually dates, before heading to the Eid prayers.

Following the prayer, family elders distribute cash or gifts to the children.

Credit for USA today .