Eid-al-fitr By Adele, Kane, Adam, Blair

Eid-al-fitr Their festival is called Eid-al-Fitr celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting (sawm). The religious Eid is a single day during which Muslims are not allowed to fast. The holiday celebrates the end of the 29 or 30 days of dawn-to-sunset fasting during the whole month of Ramadan. The day of Eid, therefore, falls on the first day of the month of Shawwal. The exact day of celebration varies by locality. However, in most countries, it is generally celebrated on the same day as Saudi Arabia.

What or who is a Muslim? A Muslim is a follower of the religion of Islam Islam is an Arabic word meaning submission and obedience. It comes from a word meaning peace. During Ramadan, Muslims fast during daylight hours. This is a time for worship, thinking and the strengthening of family and community ties.

Many Muslims attend communal prayers and listen to a khutba or sermon on the first day of the month of Shawwal. These prayers are held outside or in large venues, such as sports arenas. Many Muslims may travel far to take part in these activities. Some communities organize different festivities, such as communal meals or events for children, on this day. Before the day of Eid, during the last few days of Ramadan, each Muslim family gives a donation to the poor. This donation can be food -- rice, barley, dates, rice, etc. -- to make sure that the needy can have a holiday meal and take part in the celebration. This donation is known as sadaqah al-fitr (the charity of fast- breaking).

In 2015 Eid al-Fitr will start in North America a day later - on Saturday, the 18th of July. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the month of Ramadan, the month of fasting. The word Fitr means "to break", which symbolizes the breaking of the fasting period and of all evil habits.