Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. This year in the United States it is slated to begin at sundown on Saturday, June 24 and end in the evening of Tuesday, June 27. Here’s what Eid al-Fitr is and a couple places to celebrate Eid al-Fitr in the New York City area.
Eid al-Fitr is the celebration of the end of Ramadan and translates to “festival of breaking the fast.” Ramadan is the month during which the Prophet Muhammad is said to have had the the Quran, the Islamic holy book, revealed to him. During this month many Muslims fast from dawn to sunset each day, recite the Quran, and dedicate time to prayer.
Eid al-Fitr is the celebration to mark the end of the spiritual month of Ramadan. Traditionally Eid al-Fitr is celebrated for three days and is a national holiday in Muslim countries. It is widely celebrated by Muslims across the globe. To celebrate or learn more about Ramadan or Eid al-Fitr, visit a local mosque or cultural institution, such as the Islamic Cultural Center of New York or the Muslim American Society Youth Center, or attend one of the events below to celebrate Eid al-Fitr in the New York City area.
This year the Museum of the City of New York at 1220 Fifth Ave. in Manhattan will be hosting an Eid al-Fitr Community Celebration on Monday, June 26 from 2-5pm. This program is free with museum admission and geared toward families with children ages 6-12. During the celebration visitors will learn more about this time of gratitude for Muslim people and share what they are thankful for by contributing to a community mural. Guests will be able to explore Muslim cultural traditions in New York through a scavenger hunt of the Museum of the City of New York’s Muslim in New York exhibition, mehndi temporary tattoos, and the art of Arabic calligraphy by local artists.
Choopan Grill, an Afghan restaurant at 1310 Middle Country Plaza in Selden will also be hosting an Eid al-Fitr celebration. Hosted by the Tribal Dance Long Island and Caravan Connection New York the celebration will take place on Sunday, June 25 from 3-9pm. Henna tattoos will be available by donation, food will be availalbe for purchase, and there will be intermittent performances throughout the day.
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