THE Islamic festival Eid al-Fitr is celebrated in the UK and across the world each year by millions of Muslims.
The date of the religious observance changes annually as it is based around the lunar calendar. Here is everything you need to know about it, including why it happens and when is Eid 2020.
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What is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid or Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, which is a month of fasting that starts on April 23 and last until May 23, 2020.
Eid is marked next year on May 24, 2020.
It is an important religious holiday for Muslims and is a day when they are not permitted to fast.
Eid kick-starts the month of Shawwal, which begins with a feast to end the period of fasting.
However, some Muslims do observe six days of fasting during Shawwal (the day after Eid) - as this period is considered equivalent to fasting all year round.
It is believed that good deeds are rewarded 10 times in Islam and so to fast for the 30 days during Ramadan and a further six days during Shawwal fulfils the obligation of fasting for the entire year.
The celebration of Eid is a public holiday in many Muslim countries, but is not one in the UK, despite a campaign for it to be recognised back in 2014.
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During Eid, Muslims will often purchase new clothes for the occasion, and take part in festivals and celebrations.
Many will wake up early to pray at a mosque or outdoor prayer venue.
Gifts and cards are often exchanged among friends and family.
Eid means "celebration" and Mubarak means "blessed", often Eid Mubarak is used as a greeting over this period.
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