Occasions are a great way to boost office morale, and as offices become more and more diverse, there are more and more occasions to celebrate! If you’re planning to introduce Eid celebrations to the office this year, our quick and easy guide will help you get started.

What is Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr is an Islamic holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, said to have first been celebrated 624CE by the Prophet Muhammad following the battle of Jang-e-Badar. An estimated three-million muslims in the UK will be celebrating this year with feasts, gifts and family gatherings.

When is Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr (not to be confused with Eid al-Adha, which begins on Tuesday 21st August this year) falls on the first day of Shawwāl - the tenth month in the Islamic Calendar. Because the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle rather than the solar one, the date changes slightly each year. In 2018, Eid al-Fitr begins on Thursday 15th June and ends the next day.

Eid al-Fitr Greetings

If you want to send out good wishes to those celebrating, the typical greeting is: “Eid Mubarak!” which literally translates to: “Blessed Celebration!”

Eid Corporate Gifts & Celebrations

Get into the spirit of the celebration by hosting an Eid feast in the office or giving out gourmet Eid hampers! Sharing foods are perfect, such as nuts, dates and chocolates, and sparkling juices or premium-quality coffee are great to wash them down. Just remember to make sure that any food you buy is halal (meaning that it adheres to Islamic law; it should be free from alcohol and certain foodstuffs such as pork). If you’re unsure, check the Halal Food Guidelines for clarification.

Happy celebrations and Eid Mubarak from our office to yours!