The Islamic holiday Eid Al-Fitr marks the completion of Ramadan, a full month of fasting, extra prayer and other acts of worship. In Morocco and elsewhere in the world, it's a day of thankfulness and celebration.
Food is always a big part of any holiday. See Moroccan Recipes for Eid Al-Fitr to learn what Moroccans might serve as they celebrate this special day.
Zakat Al-Fitr
To ensure that even the poor have the means to enjoy the holiday, all heads of household are obligated to donate food to the needy on behalf of each family member. This charity is called Zakat Al-Fitr or Sadaqa Al-Fitr, and becomes due on the day of Eid Al-Fitr. Many families make their donations in the days preceding the Eid, however.Eid Al-Fitr in Morocco
The day begins early with many Muslims heading to their local mosque for a morning Eid sermon and congregational prayers. Following the prayer, Eid Al-Fitr celebrations are traditionally low-key, family affairs in Morocco. Extended family may gather for festive meals, or individual families will eat at home and then visit relatives in the afternoon and evening.
Gift exchanges are not commonplace, although many families observe a tradition of buying new clothes for their children. Children might also receive small gifts of money from relatives.
Food Traditions for Eid Al-Fitr
Prior to Eid, many women are busy in the kitchen preparing Moroccan cookies and pastries. Others choose to buy cookies and sweets from a local patisserie, or bakery.
Although any number of dishes might be prepared for an Eid dinner, common choices are couscous dishes, lamb or beef with prunes, chicken with preserved lemons and olives, Chicken Bastilla or lamb or beef brochettes. For a more complete list of dishes, see Moroccan Recipes for Eid Al-Fitr.
