Eid day is almost here! After a month of fasting, reflection and spiritual growth, the sighting of the moon signals the arrival of one of the most joyous days in the Islamic calendar. The air is filled with excitement, and a sense of celebration spreads throughout the Muslim community. Whether young or old, everyone looks forward to this special day with heartfelt anticipation.

Eid is a time of gratitude, where we thank Allah for giving us the strength to complete the month of Ramadan. It is a time of generosity, as we share our blessings with those around us. And above all, it is a time of unity when the entire Muslim community comes together in prayer, celebration and love.

Experiencing Eid as a New Muslim
For those who have recently embraced Islam, Eid can bring mixed emotions. On one hand, there is the immense joy of being part of a global celebration, but on the other, there might be feelings of loneliness, especially if family and close friends do not share the same faith.

If you are a new Muslim, know that you are not alone. Try to spend time with the Muslim community – whether at the masjid, in a local gathering, or with newfound friends. The warmth and love of the Muslim ummah make Eid an unforgettable experience.

The Eid Prayer: A Beautiful Gathering of Worshippers

The first highlight of the day is the Eid prayer. You can expect all masjids in the Sydney area to be overflowing with worshippers. Some masjids even hold prayers in outdoor areas to accommodate the massive congregations.

The Lebanese Muslim Association’s Lakemba Mosque is known to attract between 40,000 and 50,000 people for Eid, with surrounding streets closed by the police to manage the crowds. The United Muslims of Australia (UMA) also hosts grand Eid gatherings, bringing together thousands of worshippers. This year, the newly opened Al-Bayt Al-Islami mosque in Leppington will also have a huge congregation – and these are but three examples in Sydney.

No matter your city, town, suburb or village, you will find Eid prayer to be a memorable occasion. -standing shoulder to shoulder with fellow believers, reciting takbeer in unison, and making heartfelt du’a truly fills the heart with joy and a sense of belonging.

Most Eid prayers start around 7:30 AM, but it’s always best to check with your local masjid for exact timings. Arriving early ensures you find a good spot and get to enjoy the atmosphere as people greet each other with warm smiles and heartfelt embraces. Many mosques distribute lollies to children and sweets to worshippers as they leave the masjid, adding to the joy of the occasion.
How Muslims Spend the Rest of the Day

Once the prayer is over, the real festivities begin. Families gather for delicious feasts, serving traditional dishes that vary depending on cultural backgrounds. From aromatic biryanis to sweet treats like baklava and ma’amoul, the tables are filled with food prepared with love.

Eid is also a time of visiting loved ones. Many spend the day traveling between homes, exchanging gifts and sharing stories. Children receive Eidi – small gifts or money from elders – as a token of love.

Muslim businesses and charities often take a few days off, allowing people to spend quality time with their families. Even those who don’t work within the community often take annual leave to fully enjoy the Eid celebrations. The atmosphere is vibrant, with parks and recreational areas filled with families enjoying picnics, barbecue gatherings and fun activities for the kids.

When Do We Stop Fasting?
The fasting of Ramadan officially ends the night before Eid when the new moon is sighted. On the morning of Eid, before heading to the masjid, it is a Sunnah to eat something sweet – such as dates – to signify that the fasting period is over. This small act is a beautiful reminder that Eid is a day of gratitude and celebration.

Eid Mubarak from IntroToIslam

If you are a new Muslim and don’t have family to celebrate with, consider spending the day with others who are in the same situation. Many community groups and mosques welcome new Muslims with open arms, ensuring that everyone has a place to celebrate.
From all of us at IntroToIslam, we wish you a blessed and joyful Eid. May this day bring you happiness, peace and countless beautiful moments.
Eid Mubarak!