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Eid al-Fitr is a special day among families and friends throughout the Islamic world. This two-to-three-day festival takes place immediately following the end of the month of Ramadan and is the most significant and joyous observance of the Islamic faith.
In essence, Eid al-Fitr presents the faithful with the opportunity to thank God for having been granted the strength and conviction to complete the obligatory fast and obey His commandments during the holy month of Ramadan. By having done so, Muslims rejoice in returning to a state of fitra (innocence/purity), having been pardoned of all their transgressions, thus starting life anew.
As we prepare to welcome the holiest of months, here are the dates, public holidays, and observances for welcoming and celebrating Eid al-Fitr 2023 in the Maldives.
Eid Mubarak!
Eid al-Fitr in Maldives dates and calendar 2023
The Islamic calendar is lunar and based on the moon’s sighting compared to the Gregorian calendar, a solar calendar. Determining the date of the Eid al-Fitr depends on the sighting of the crescent moon (a day after the new moon). As such, the process of determining the date of the Eid al-Fitr can only be performed under cover of the night. Should the crescent moon not be spotted, Ramadan continues for another day.
This year, Eid al-Fitr in the Maldives is expected to fall on 21 April 2023.
Eid al-Fitr 2023 in Maldives public holiday
Eid al-Fitr 2023 is a public holiday in the Maldives. So, most schools and businesses are closed during public holidays.
Eid al-Fitr in Maldives
The Maldives is a majority Muslim country. And for that, Eid is very widely celebrated in the Maldives. The day begins with an early morning Eid Prayer, a congregational event with the mosque flooding with worshippers.
Family and friends usually travel together, escaping the busy city life, and others visit loved ones back home to show the friendship and love between everyone.
Image © visitmaldives.com
Eid celebrations in the country’s capital city of Malé are entirely different and vibrant from the other islands with lots of activities during the afternoon.
Among these, the most famous event is the water balloon throwing competition. DJs throw parties on the beaches where everyone is invited to have fun, dance to some tunes, eat, and play some games. The Maali Hingun or Maali parade is also another fun walk event, where people wear unique costumes and masks.
