Mrirt – Eid Al Fitr, marking the conclusion of Ramadan, is confirmed that it is going to be celebrated on March 30 in Belgium.
The Muslim Executive of Belgium (EMD) confirmed the date in a Facebook post on its official page, following its Council of Theologians’ video conference meeting today.
Marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival to Break the Fast,” is a significant occasion for the Muslim community in Belgium, which is home to approximately 450,000 Muslims.
The vast majority of Belgium’s Muslim population came over as migrants after a series of bilateral agreements were signed in 1964 with both Morocco and Turkiye – the two nationalities that represent 80% to 90% of the Muslim community.
Like other countries around the world, Belgian Muslims have to pay Zakat al-Fitr, which is a sum of charity money shared across disadvantaged Muslim communities so that everyone can have the chance to celebrate Eid. The local Council of Theologians attached to the EMB set this year’s zakat at €10.
The Eid morning commences with a special prayer at local mosques, where Muslims attend the imam’s (religious leader) khutba (sermon/teachings).
Muslim practitioners gather in the special prayer to exchange greetings, express gratitude, and seek blessings.
When done with the prayers, Muslim families assemble to share and enjoy traditional meals featuring traditional dishes and sweets.
Moroccan communities serve homemade cookies and pastries such as mssmen and baghrir, while Turkish families often prepare baklava soaked in honey.
During religious celebrations, the Muslim population in Belgium never forgets the suffering of their fellow Muslims in Gaza. Last year, several initiatives succeeded in raising a huge amount of financial support for Palestine.
The celebration fosters a sense of unity and cultural richness, as Muslims, Moroccans, Turkish, Syrians, Afghans, Eritreans and others across Belgium come together to observe this important religious event.