Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar. The start of any lunar Hijri month differs depending on when the new moon is observed by local religious officials in a given region. For many Muslims, Eid-ul-Fitr is a time to express thankfulness to Allah for providing them with guidance and strength during Ramazan, the Islamic holy month of fasting to help them practice self control. It's expected to be celebrated on May 3 of this year. Muslims pray for Eid-ul-Fitr, which is known as “Salat Al Eid” in Arabic. Muslims will congregate in mosques or open locations to offer two “Rakat” units of prayer. Following the prayers, the imam delivers a speech in which he prays for forgiveness, mercy and peace for all people everywhere. Donating money to the destitute (Zakat-al-Fitr), Eid greetings are also part of the Eid celebrations. The night before Eid is known as Chaand ki Raat or moon night. Individuals use this night to finish their holiday shopping and prepare for the next day. The celebration is to show joy, forgiveness, gratitude to God, and memory of God.
