Eid Al-Fitr Celebrations for These 4 Muslim-Minority Countries

Eid Al-Fitr is right around the corner, and many Muslims are preparing for this grand event. While we’re familiar with how Muslim-influenced countries celebrate the end of Ramadan, ever wondered how other nations do so?

In this article, we’ll take a tour of some of the lesser-known Muslim communities around the world and see how they commemorate the ‘Festival of Breaking Fast.’

Somalia

Over 90% of people in Somalia practice Islam, making it the primary religion in the country. As such, many Somalians look forward to celebrating the end of Ramadan. 

People fill the marketplace to shop for holiday goods – from food to clothes and toys. Shopkeepers even say that this is the best time for business every year, with many Somali Muslims buying products for gifts or the home. Some capable families also give meat from slaughtered animals to their loved ones for the Eid Al-Fitr celebrations.

Families and friends also gather for large meals while greeting “ciid wanaagsan,” most of which are prepared in advance by loving mothers and aunts. And no Somalia table is complete without staples like the Sambuus and the Cambaabur. Preferred as a breakfast item, Cambaabur is a bread dish synonymous with Eid. Another Eid favorite is the Sambuus, triangle-shaped dumplings filled with meat or fish and fried to perfection. 

Puerto Rico

With several Puerto Ricans ‘reverting’ to Islam over the recent years, you’d see an exciting fusion of two cultures. Puerto Rican Muslims convert their homes ‘Fiesta-style,’ with banners saying “Feliz Eid” and bright, colorful decorations. Children enjoy the sight of balloons and the piñata as part of the festive flair. They also wear traditional Puerto Rican outfits topped with kufis and hijabs for the Islamic touch. 

Latino culture is about family and food, which is also extended to their Eid celebrations. Most dishes are regional classics made halal, with piles of sweets served in decorative bowls.

Japan

Japan is another Muslim-minority country experiencing a growth in the Muslim population. Around 130,000 Muslims call Japan their home. While they also celebrate Eid Al-Fitr, they add a distinct twist to the conventional practice.

Charitable giving, or parents giving children money, is commonplace while greeting “Shiawasena īdo.” So do meals with family or friends. What makes Eid-al Fitr in Japan stand out is the predominance of sugary dishes, hence the term “sweet Eid.”

Several sweet Eid specialties that could be seen on the table include the traditional Sheer Khurma, Shashi Tukray, and Gulab Jaman. Some may add Japanese favorites, like the sweet tapioca and coffee jelly, as part of the celebratory feast.

Ukraine

Muslims in Ukraine are working to build their traditions and practices for their faith. Currently, they only amount to 1-2% of the country’s population of around 42 million. 

While a committee handles major concerns, they follow recommendations from neighboring countries like Turkey. There are no established laws or regulations for Muslims in the area. This includes how they commemorate major Islamic holidays, like Eid-Al Fitr. 

For Ukrainian Muslims, they celebrate “shchaslyvoho Id” with homemade dishes that fill the dining tables. You can also expect freshly-baked cakes as part of the festivities. When Eid falls on a warmer month, they also go for picnics at the park with a spread of barbeque and fruit.

Additionally, some give their family members special kinds of sweets. The act combines the tradition of charitable giving and sweet Eid. 

Family gatherings are adjusted to suit everyone’s schedule, especially when it falls on a work or school day. This is due to Eid not yet considered a state holiday. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky showed the initiative to add both Eids as religious holidays in 2020. As of 2022, it is yet to be implemented.

Breaking Fast the World Round

Indeed, Muslims worldwide commemorate Eid-al Fitr with several cultural differences. Yet, all have the same ideals: the solemnity of prayer and sharing excellent food with loved ones. We hope that you’ll enjoy the end of Ramadan, wherever you are.