Eid al-Fitr 2025: Complete Guide to Celebrate the End of Ramadan | Al-Imen Islamic Bookstore Brussels since 1982

Eid al-Fitr, a symbol of joy and sharing, marks the end of the blessed month of Ramadan. In 2025, this important celebration of the Islamic calendar is scheduled for Sunday, March 30 in France according to the official announcement of the CFCM.

However, some countries might celebrate it on March 31 according to the lunar observation method adopted. Let's discover together everything you need to know to prepare for and fully experience this festive day.

Understanding Eid al-Fitr: Meaning and Importance

Eid al-Fitr, literally "the festival of breaking the fast," celebrates the completion of the Ramadan fast. This festival is a moment of collective joy after a month of spiritual effort and deprivation. It usually lasts from one to three days depending on the country and traditions.

This celebration is distinguished from Eid al-Adha (the feast of sacrifice) by several important aspects:

Eid al-Fitr is generally shorter (1-3 days compared to 4 days for Eid al-Adha)
It does not involve animal sacrifice
It is preceded by the mandatory payment of Zakat al-Fitr
It marks the end of Ramadan, while Eid al-Adha commemorates Ibrahim's sacrifice

Eid al-Fitr 2025 Date: Why Differences?

The determination of the exact date of Eid al-Fitr is subject to various methods depending on countries and Muslim communities. In 2025, the calendar is as follows:

Country	Expected date	Method
France	March 30, 2025	Astronomical calculations (CFCM)
Belgium	March 30, 2025	Astronomical calculations
Morocco	March 30 or 31, 2025	Lunar observation
Algeria	March 30 or 31, 2025	Lunar observation
Saudi Arabia	March 30, 2025*	Lunar observation

*This date could change to March 31 if the lunar crescent is not visible on the evening of March 29, 2025.

These differences are explained by two main approaches:

The observation method: Traditional, it requires the direct observation of the lunar crescent on the 29th day of the month of Ramadan.
The astronomical calculation method: Adopted notably by France and several European countries, it allows determining the exact date in advance.

These variations explain why some members of the same family, living in different countries, may sometimes celebrate Eid on different dates.

The End of Ramadan: Important Steps

The last days of Ramadan and the transition to Eid al-Fitr are organized around several key moments:

The Night of Doubt (March 29, 2025)

This crucial evening corresponds to the observation of the lunar crescent which determines whether the month of Ramadan will have 29 or 30 days. In countries following the observation method, official committees are tasked with scanning the sky after sunset to spot the lunar crescent.

The Last Day of Fasting

Whether it is the 29th or 30th of Ramadan, this last day holds special importance. Many Muslims intensify their acts of worship and pray for their fast to be accepted.

Zakat al-Fitr

This obligatory alms must be given before the Eid prayer. In 2025, its amount was set at €7 per person in France according to the APBIF and €9 according to the CFCM. It allows the needy to participate with dignity in the Eid festivities.

For more details on this obligation, see our complete guide on Zakat al-Fitr.

Preparations for Eid al-Fitr: Complete Checklist

The days leading up to Eid are devoted to various material and spiritual preparations:

Material Preparations

Clothing: An important tradition, buying new clothes for Eid symbolizes renewal.
Decoration: Many families decorate their homes with lights, garlands, and Islamic motifs.
Cooking: Preparing traditional dishes according to cultural origins (pastilla, couscous, oriental pastries...).
Gifts: Buying presents, especially for children.

Spiritual Preparations

Fulfill the Zakat al-Fitr before the prayer
Perform the ghusl (major ablution) on Eid morning
Recite the takbir (Allahu Akbar) on the way to the prayer

Eid Day: Celebration Proceedings

The day of Eid al-Fitr traditionally follows a well-established program:

Eid Morning

Collective Eid Prayer: Performing the specific prayer (Salat al-Eid), usually in large mosques or open spaces, about an hour after sunrise.
Sermon : Listening to the khutbah (sermon) that follows the prayer.
Congratulations : Exchange of wishes with the traditional expression "Aïd Moubarak" or "Eid Mubarak" (Happy holiday).

The Festivities

Family meals : Moments of sharing around traditional dishes.
Gift giving : Especially to children, often in the form of money (the Eidiyah).
Family visits : Essential tradition for strengthening family bonds.
Community activities : In some regions, organization of parties, bazaars, or charity events.

All these moments are generally accompanied by traditional sweets such as oriental cakes, honey pastries, or stuffed dates, according to the cultural traditions of each region.

Regional Specificities in Europe

In Europe, Eid al-Fitr celebrations adopt certain local characteristics while preserving essential traditions:

In France

Organization of large collective prayers in rented halls or stadiums in major cities
Popularity of meals blending French culinary traditions and cuisines from the Muslim world
Development of Eid markets in several cities

In Belgium

Mosques open late into the evening for celebrations
Creative workshops for children in Brussels and other major cities
Organization of food drives in several neighborhoods

Eid al-Fitr and Children

Eid is especially important for the youngest. Here are some traditions specifically related to children:

The Eidiyah: Traditional monetary gift given to children
New clothes: An important symbol to mark this special day
Fun activities: Games organized especially for the occasion
Involvement in preparations: Decorating the house, preparing greeting cards

To help your children understand the importance of this holiday, discover our selection of Islamic books for children that explain Muslim holidays in a fun and educational way.

Practical Questions for Eid al-Fitr 2025

Calendar to Remember

Start of Ramadan 2025: March 1, 2025
End of Ramadan : March 29 or 30, 2025
Eid al-Fitr in France: March 30, 2025
Zakat al-Fitr: To be paid before the Eid prayer

Practical Information

Check the Eid prayer times with your local mosque
Inquire about any community events organized on this occasion
Plan gifts and culinary preparations a few days in advance

Eid al-Fitr, A Festival of Sharing and Spirituality

Beyond the festive aspects, Eid al-Fitr remains above all a spiritual celebration that crowns a month of intense devotion. It reminds us of the importance of gratitude to Allah for allowing us to complete the fasting of Ramadan and encourages us to continue the spirit of sharing and generosity beyond this day.

This holiday is also a special time to strengthen community and family bonds, and to pass on to the younger generation the fundamental values of Islam: generosity, compassion, and brotherhood.

At Al-Imen, we already wish you a very happy Eid al-Fitr 2025 and offer you a selection of books on Islamic holidays and celebrations to help you fully experience this blessed period.

Note: The dates mentioned in this article are based on forecasts and official announcements available at the time of writing. It is always recommended to check with local religious authorities for confirmation.