Eid 2022 in Birmingham: when is Eid al-Fitr, and what events are taking place to mark end of Ramadan?

Eid al-Fitr takes place at the end of Ramadan
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Ramadan is coming to an end, and for Muslims in Birmingham this means that the next celebration is just around the corner.

The end of the month-long Ramadan fast will see Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the next day date in the Islamic calendar.

Here’s all you need to know about Eid al-Fitr, including some of the celebrations taking place in Birmingham this year.

What is Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr, also known as ‘Festival of the Breaking of the Fast’, marks the end of Ramadan and the month-long fast which Muslims take part in.

It is a way for Muslims to celebrate their accomplishments of fasting during Ramadan, which is seen as a sacred duty.

Eid al-Fitr also signals the start of the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, and usually takes place over one to three days.

Eid al-Fitr is one day less than the celebrations of Eid al-Adha, and for this reason is often called ‘Lesser’ or ‘Smaller Eid.

Eid al-Adha, known as ‘Greater Eid,’ is seen as the more important holiday of the two.

During Eid al-Fitr, Muslims take part in special morning prayers, greet each other with formal embraces and offer each other greetings of “Eid Mubarak,” or “have a blessed Eid.”

Another custom is to gather with family and friends to prepare and eat meals as well and give gifts to children.

When is Eid al-Fitr 2022?

Eid al-Fitr this year is likely to be celebrated on Monday, 2 May. The date of the celebration changes each year, and the timings change depending on which country you are in.

This is as a result of the date being calculated by the sighting of the new moon.

What events are taking place in Birmingham for Eid al-Fitr?

Celebrations to mark Eid al-Fitr in Birmingham have been announced across the city, here is a selection of these and where they take place.

Green Lane Masjid - Eid at Small Heath Park

The Masjid is hosting two large events for Eid al-Fitr this year.

Eid at Small Heath Park will be held with an expected turnout of around 20,000 people, a significant reduction when compared to the 60,000 attendees in pre-Covid years.

These measures are in consideration of public health and a steady return to the large celebrations of previous years. People are expected to arrive from 8.00am with the prayer to begin at 9.30am.

There will be activities at Small Heath Park, including the regular Robert Wilkinson Fun-Fair at the Park, for families to enjoy after prayers have concluded.

Green Lane Masjid - Edgbaston Cricket Ground

Eid at the Edgbaston Stadium grounds will be held with 2,000 people in attendance, and online registration will be required.

The event is in partnership with Warwickshire County Cricket Club.

People are expected to arrive from 7.45am for Eid at Edgbaston Stadium, with the prayer to begin at 8.30am.

Activities at Edgbaston Stadium will include stalls, food and cricket coaching for children.

Attendees are encouraged to stay for the duration of the morning to enjoy the festivities.

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