What is Eid al-Fitr? See how Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan

From beachside prayers in Senegal to colorful festivals in Pakistan, these pictures show the many ways that Muslims observe the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Culture · By Gulnaz Khan · Published June 21, 2017 · 1 min read

Topics: Religion, Islam, People and Culture, Travel, General, History & Culture, Digital Editorial

As the Islamic holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, Muslims around the world are preparing for a celebration filled with prayer, feasts, and community. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is expected to be observed on March 20 this year, depending on the sighting of the moon. Beginning and ending with the new moon, Ramadan falls on the ninth month of the Arabic lunar calendar. It is believed by Muslims to be when the first verses of the Koran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad more than a millennium ago. From sunrise to sunset, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and vices like gossip and lying. Not only is it meant to be a period of self-reflection, but to serve as a reminder to be charitable to the less fortunate. (Five unique ways Ramadan is celebrated around the world.) Eid al-Fitr, Arabic for “festival of breaking fast," is celebrated over three days at the end of Ramadan through prayer, feasts, parades, gifts, and charitable giving. Here's a look at how it is celebrated around the world.

Editor's note: This story was originally published on June 21, 2017. It has been updated.