What is an eid?

Eid is a religious holiday celebrated by Muslims around the world. There are two main Eid celebrations in Islam: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

• Eid al-Fitr, also known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. It is a time for Muslims to come together with family and friends, eat special meals, and give to charity.

• Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It is a time for Muslims to perform the Hajj pilgrimage (if able) and to sacrifice an animal, such as a sheep or goat, as a symbol of Ibrahim's sacrifice.

Both Eids are marked by special prayers, feasts, gift-giving, and acts of charity. Muslims also dress in their finest clothes and often decorate their homes with lights and decorations to mark the occasion.