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Morocco anticipates Eid Al Fitr celebration on March 31

Friday 28 - 12:20 By: Dakir Madiha

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Morocco is poised to celebrate Eid Al Fitr on March 31, as astronomical projections indicate the sighting of the crescent moon will occur next week. Ibrahim Akhyam, a specialist in timekeeping and a member of the Islamic Moon Sighting Project, suggests that this Ramadan is unlikely to extend to a full 30 days, reinforcing the expectation for Eid on the specified date.

While Akhyam highlighted the importance of astronomical calculations, he underscored that the definitive method for determining Eid remains the visual sighting, as sanctioned by Moroccan authorities. To this end, the country's Islamic Affairs Ministry will deploy a team of religious officials to conduct the crescent moon sighting, likely scheduled for either Saturday or Sunday.

Eid Al Fitr marks a significant cultural celebration in Morocco, where families convene around a breakfast table laden with a variety of traditional foods and pastries. This festival not only signifies the conclusion of Ramadan but also serves as a joyous occasion for children, who don new clothes and receive gifts, including cash. The celebratory atmosphere extends to the streets, where children play and showcase their festive garments.

The holiday also provides an opportunity for many Moroccans to take time off work, enabling those living away from their hometowns to return and partake in the festivities with their families. Reports indicate that neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia, are also likely to celebrate Eid Al Fitr around the same time, pending the results of their moon sighting.

As the anticipation builds, the sighting of the crescent moon will ultimately confirm whether Ramadan concludes with 29 or 30 days this year.