Rabat– Pakistan will officially celebrate Eid Al Fitr on March 31, marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan 1446.
The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, the country’s official moon sighting body, confirmed the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon on Saturday evening.
“Pakistan will celebrate Eid Al-Fitr on March 31, as the crescent moon is expected to be visible to the naked eye tomorrow, Sunday,” confirmed the state media.
Fasting in Pakistan began on March 2, and today marks the 28th day of Ramadan in the South Asian country.
The federal government has declared Eid holidays from March 31 (Monday) to April 2 (Wednesday), according to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division. Public and private sector employees across the country will observe these holidays to mark the joyous occasion.
Eid A Fitr, meaning the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is one of the most significant Islamic celebrations. In Pakistan, it begins with special Eid prayers held at mosques and open grounds across Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and other cities.
Worshippers gather in large numbers, dressed in “shalwar kameez”, traditional clothing often embroidered with intricate patterns, to perform the Salat al-Eid prayer.
Before the prayer, Muslims in Pakistan fulfill their obligation of Zakat Al Fitr, or locally known as “Eid Fitrana”— a charitable donation meant to assist the less fortunate in celebrating Eid. This act of giving elevates the values of compassion and generosity, which are central to the festival.
Following the prayer, families and friends come together for elaborate Eid feasts, featuring popular dishes such as “sheer Khurma” (sweet vermicelli pudding), biryani, kebabs, and “nihari”. Homes are decorated, and guests are welcomed with traditional sweets.
One of the most anticipated customs of Eid Al Fitr is the exchange of Eidi — cash gifts given by elders to children as a token of love and blessings. Young ones eagerly collect their Eidi from parents, uncles, aunts, and grandparents, excitedly planning how to spend it.
As Pakistanis and Muslims across the world prepare to celebrate Eid, the festival serves as a moment of gratitude, unity, and joy, strengthening family bonds and fostering a sense of community spirit.
