Eid Mubarak: A Personal Reflection on Celebrating Eid

As we approach Eid next week, I wanted to take a moment to share my personal experience of how we celebrate this beautiful occasion and reflect on what it means for me. Eid is a time of joy, reflection, and togetherness, and for many of us, it’s a moment to reconnect with family, community, and our faith.

Here’s a look at how my family and I celebrate this special day.

The Morning Ritual

The day begins with the Eid prayer, which is one of the central aspects of the celebration. This is a time when the whole family comes together, and we head to the mosque for the prayer. It's a special moment not only of worship but of unity, as everyone gathers together to mark the occasion.

We wake up early and dress in our best new clothes something we look forward to every year. For me, this means wearing traditional clothing like a salwaar kameez or a thobe. A salwaar kameez is a traditional outfit commonly worn in South Asia and consists of a long tunic (kameez) paired with loose-fitting trousers (salwaar). It's comfortable, elegant, and often made from beautiful fabrics with intricate embroidery, making it perfect for the occasion. Alternatively, a thobe (also known as a dishdasha or kandura depending on the region) is often worn. This is a long, loose-fitting robe, typically white, but can also come in various colours. It's a traditional garment worn in many parts of the Middle East and North Africa. Both outfits are worn with pride, symbolising respect for the occasion, and are a way to connect with cultural and religious traditions.

While this is a common tradition in our culture, it's important to note that outfits for Eid vary across different cultures. For example, many women may choose to wear colourful, festive dresses, while others may opt for a sari in South Asia or an abaya in the Middle East. Regardless of the specific outfit, the essence of Eid is the same: it’s about putting on your best clothes to mark the special occasion.

In Islam, it is considered a Sunnah (prophetic tradition) to wear your best clothes for Eid. This tradition emphasises dressing neatly and beautifully to mark the occasion and show joy. The idea is to celebrate the day in the best possible way, reflecting the significance of the festival. So, while buying new clothes is not compulsory, dressing cleanly and nicely is encouraged as a way to honour the spirit of the day.

After the prayer, we greet others at the mosque with "Eid Mubarak," which is a traditional greeting meaning "Blessed Eid." This greeting is often accompanied by three hugs, symbolising love, and goodwill. It’s such a warm and genuine moment, as we wish happiness and blessings to everyone, whether family, friends, or strangers.

Post Prayer Family Breakfast

After the prayer and greetings, we return home to have a special breakfast with the family. One of the most beloved dishes we have is Semiya, also known as sweet semolina. Semiya is made from semolina (a flour derived from durum wheat), cooked with milk, sugar, and cardamom, creating a deliciously creamy and comforting dish. It’s a dish that’s passed down through generations in my family. 

Paying Our Respects

Eid is a day of celebration, but it’s also a time for remembrance. The whole family visit the graveyard to honour our loved ones who have passed away. For me, this includes remembering my dear grandmother and my niece, both of whom hold a special place in my heart. Though Eid is often a day of joy, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on those who are no longer with us and to remember them in our prayers.

The Family Gathering

Later in the day, we head to a booked hall where all our extended family cousins, aunts, uncles, and more come together to celebrate. Every year, each family usually brings a dish to contribute to a large communal feast, with everything from Savory dishes to decadent desserts. The highlight, of course, is the dessert table! However, this year, we’ve arranged for a caterer to come in and provide a buffet, which should be great! After fasting for the month of Ramadan, we indulge in all the treats we’ve been craving.

We also make sure to keep the little ones entertained by hiring a bouncy castle and organising various activities. Eid is a joyous occasion, and it’s important for the children to feel the excitement of the day while also learning what Eid is all about the joy, the togetherness, and the sharing so this can then be passed on to the next generation.

We spend the entire day at the hall, eating, talking, and bonding with games as a family. It’s one of the few times we can all come together away from our busy lives. The laughter, conversations, and games bring us closer, and it’s a moment to cherish.

Ending the Day

As the day winds down, some of the younger cousins often head out for a fun evening activity, such as bowling. It’s a way to continue the celebration, enjoy each other’s company, and create more memories.

What Eid Means to Me

Eid is not just a day of feasting and festivities; it’s a time for spiritual renewal, gratitude, and community. While my family’s celebration may follow a specific tradition, Eid is celebrated in many different ways around the world. For some, it’s a quiet day spent with close family; for others, it’s a grand celebration with extended relatives. Regardless of how it’s celebrated, the core essence of Eid remains the same: it’s a time of giving, of reflecting on our blessings, and of spreading love and joy.

In my community, one of the most beautiful aspects of Eid is the sense of unity. Even if you don’t know someone, you greet them with "Eid Mubarak" and share in the joy of the day. The phrase means "Blessed Eid," and it encapsulates the spirit of kindness and inclusivity that defines the day. It’s a reminder that no matter our differences, we are all united in our humanity and in our celebration of faith and togetherness.

As we prepare for Eid, I hope this reflection on my own traditions helps you feel the warmth and beauty of this special occasion. Eid is a time to come together with loved ones, to give thanks, and to share moments of joy.

Eid Mubarak to all of you! May your day be filled with blessings, love, and happiness. 💫