Eid ul Fitr marks the end of Ramadan with joy, prayer and family gatherings. The last days of Ramadan can feel rushed with shopping, tailoring, cleaning and worship all at once. A little planning makes Eid more peaceful. This guide covers Eid ul Fitr preparation step by step, with a live countdown on our Days Until Eid ul Fitr page.
Fitrana (Sadaqat al-Fitr)
Fitrana is due from every Muslim who can afford it, on behalf of themselves and their dependants, and should be paid before the Eid prayer so the poor can also celebrate. Religious authorities announce suggested amounts each year based on the price of staples such as wheat, dates or raisins. Paying early in Ramadan is allowed and helps recipients prepare.
Shopping timeline
| When | Task |
|---|---|
| Early Ramadan | Order stitched clothes or give fabric to the tailor |
| Mid-Ramadan | Shoes, bangles and gifts |
| Last week | Mehndi, final items |
| Chand Raat | Only essentials; markets are very crowded |
Tailors get very busy in the last two weeks, so give orders early.
Budget and Eidi
Set an Eid budget for clothes, gifts and food. Decide Eidi amounts for children in advance and get fresh notes from the bank early, as banks are busy in the final days. Our Discount Calculator helps check sale prices.
Chand Raat
The night the Shawwal moon is sighted is full of excitement: mehndi, bangles and last-minute shopping. Plan safe travel and keep children close in crowded markets.
Eid day Sunnahs
- Bathing and wearing clean or new clothes
- Eating something sweet, traditionally dates, before the Eid prayer
- Saying the takbeer on the way to prayer
- Taking a different route home
- Greeting others and visiting family
Hosting
Plan a simple menu: sheer khurma, a main dish and snacks. Prepare as much as possible the night before.
Zakat
If you have not paid zakat, calculate it with the Zakat Calculator before Eid.
Travel
If you are travelling to your hometown, book tickets early. Read Eid holidays travel planning for tips.
Frequently asked questions
When should fitrana be paid?
Before the Eid prayer; paying earlier in Ramadan is allowed.
How much is fitrana?
Religious authorities announce suggested amounts each year based on staple food prices.
When is Eid ul Fitr?
On 1 Shawwal, after the moon is sighted; see the countdown for the expected date.