Preparing for Eid Al-Fitr: Getting Ready for the Festivities

As Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims look forward to celebrating Eid al-Fitr with joy and gratitude. But before the fasting period ends, there are a few key preparations to make to ensure a smooth transition into the festivities.

Eid al-Fitr is a time to celebrate the spiritual achievements of the month-long fasting journey. Therefore, it's essential to take the necessary steps to prepare for this special occasion. Curious about what you need to do before Eid al-Fitr? Let's dive into the details below.

Preparing for Eid Al-Fitr

1. Fulfilling Zakat Fitrah Obligation

One important step in getting ready for Eid Al-Fitr is making sure you fulfill your Zakat Fitrah obligation. This is a fundamental duty for Muslims, so it's crucial to take care of it ahead of time to avoid any last-minute rush. | Credit: Shutterstock

Zakat Fitrah is a mandatory form of charity that every Muslim must give during the month of Ramadan. The best time to pay Zakat Fitrah is on the 1st of Shawwal, after the Fajr prayer and before the Eid prayer. However, you can also pay it earlier, as long as it's done before the Eid prayer.

Most mosques have arrangements in place to collect and distribute Zakat Fitrah. Additionally, nowadays, you can conveniently fulfill this obligation online through platforms like BAZNAS (National Amil Zakat Agency). The standard amount for Zakat Fitrah is equivalent to 2.5 kilograms or 3.5 liters of staple food, or its cash equivalent.

2. Cookies and Eid Bonuses (THR)

Before Eid arrives, it's customary to prepare a variety of cookies to decorate the coffee table, and don't forget to set aside Eid bonuses for the younger members of the family. | Credit: Shutterstock.

Moving on to the financial aspect, another important part of Eid preparation involves cookies and Eid bonuses (Tunjangan Hari Raya). These elements are essential for a complete Eid celebration. Typically, the coffee table is adorned with an assortment of cookies such as nastar, kastengel, putri salju cookies, peanut cookies, and more.

You can either buy pre-packaged cookies or bake them yourself. Additionally, giving Eid bonuses (THR) is a common practice in Indonesia, where employed individuals usually give bonuses to their younger siblings.

As time goes on, the designs of THR envelopes have become more diverse. Apart from money, you can also include snacks to make them more unique. Therefore, it's recommended to prepare these THR envelopes in advance of Eid, with the amount adjusted according to your budget.

3. Eid Attire

For the Eid celebration, people often choose special outfits with unique designs and patterns, perfect for the festive atmosphere and suitable for attending Eid prayers. | Credit: Shutterstock.

Although it's not obligatory to wear new clothes on Eid, it's a widespread tradition to buy new attire for the occasion. Before the holiday, many stores offer significant discounts on various fashion items, making it an ideal time for shopping.

To avoid the hustle and bustle of shopping centers, many prefer the convenience of online shopping for their Eid outfits. Some families even opt to sew their own clothes as part of their Eid preparations, ensuring that everyone has coordinated attire for the festivities.

4. Cleaning the House

Making sure your house is clean and tidy creates a welcoming atmosphere for Eid gatherings with family and friends. | Credit: Shutterstock

Eid is a time for reconnecting with loved ones, whether it's family members or neighbors dropping by for a visit. Many people travel back to their hometowns to celebrate Eid with their families, making it essential to have a clean house.

Cleaning and tidying up the house ensures a comfortable ambiance for Eid festivities. This includes tasks like sweeping, mopping, cleaning windows, and changing tablecloths. Some may even rearrange furniture or decor to freshen up the space and make it ready to welcome guests.

5. Sending Hamper

Although it's traditional to send them about a week before Eid, nowadays, there are plenty of delivery options available, making it easier than ever to send gifts. | Credit: Studiokado

Another tip to prepare for Eid is sending out gifts. While it's not mandatory, many people choose to do so, especially for close friends and respected individuals, as it's a gesture that strengthens relationships.

Today, the concept of gifts has evolved, offering a variety of options like religious items, pastries, and more, tailored to individual preferences. These gifts can be sent through delivery services or hand-delivered. Typically, gifts are sent out approximately a week before the holiday.

Also Read: Examples of Eid Hampers Greetings for Friends or Family 

6. Cooking Special Eid Dishes

Plan ahead for your grocery shopping before Eid, as food tends to be in high demand and prices may rise. | Credit: What to Cook Today

In addition to the usual pastries, there are specific dishes that are a must during Eid celebrations. While these dishes can be prepared at any time, they hold special significance when enjoyed on the day of the festival with family and friends. Some traditional Eid dishes include chicken opor, ketupat, chicken stew, rendang, and more.

Since most shops and markets are closed on the morning of Eid al-Fitr, it's important to stock up on ingredients such as chicken and beef ahead of time.

7. Homecoming Costs

If you can, it's a good idea to buy your tickets for heading home before Ramadan kicks off. They tend to get snatched up quickly as Eid draws nearer. | Credit: Indozone

For those who travel for work or studies, it's crucial to sort out the expenses for returning home before Eid arrives. Travel costs around Eid al-Fitr can be quite hefty, so it's best to plan ahead.

Plus, nabbing transportation tickets—be it for flights, trains, or buses—can be quite the challenge, as they often sell out well before Ramadan starts. So, it's smart to set aside money for travel expenses as soon as you can.

Have you started getting ready for Eid using the tips mentioned earlier? Let's plan out when to start these preparations. This way, celebrating Eid with loved ones will be even more special this year.

And remember to embrace the blessings of Eid with special Eid hampers from Studiokado! Share the joy and warmth of the occasion with your loved ones. Explore Studiokado's collection of Eid hampers to find the perfect choice for adding to the festive spirit!

Also Read: Hampers History, Definition, Types and Benefits