Eid al-Fitr 2026
The festival of breaking the fast
Dates Across Years
About Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is one of the two most important festivals in Islam and a major public holiday in Kerala, which has a significant Muslim population — particularly in Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Kannur districts. The festival is characterised by communal prayers, charity (Zakat al-Fitr), new clothes, family feasts, and visits to relatives. In Kerala, Eid celebrations have a distinct cultural flavour, blending Mappila (Kerala Muslim) traditions with pan-Islamic customs.
Traditions & Rituals
Eid Namaz
ഈദ് നമസ്കാരംThe Eid prayer held in the morning, often in large open grounds or mosques. Thousands gather for this communal prayer, dressed in their finest clothes. In many Kerala towns, entire streets are blocked for the Eid congregation.
Sadakathul Fitr
സദഖത്തുൽ ഫിത്ർThe obligatory charity given before Eid prayer. Every Muslim household gives food or its equivalent monetary value to the poor, ensuring everyone can celebrate Eid with a festive meal.
Mappila Pathiri & Biriyani
മാപ്പിള പത്തിരിKerala Muslim (Mappila) cuisine shines at Eid. Special dishes include Malabar biriyani (Mappila biriyani), pathiri (rice flour flatbread), Kadalai curry, and a range of sweet dishes.
Eid Salutations
ഈദ് മുബാറക്The greeting 'Eid Mubarak' (Blessed Eid) is exchanged widely. Families visit each other's homes, children receive gifts and new clothes (Eid dress), and the atmosphere is festive throughout.
How Different Districts Celebrate
Grand Eid congregations — Malappuram has the highest Muslim population percentage in Kerala
Historic Mappila cuisine traditions and Eid feasts in the City of Spices
Eid celebrations with Mappila Pattu (folk songs) traditions
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Eid al-Fitr 2026 in Kerala?
Eid al-Fitr 2026 is expected on approximately April 10, 2026, subject to moon sighting. The exact date will be confirmed by Islamic authorities based on the sighting of the crescent moon. It is a public holiday in Kerala.
Why does Eid date change every year?
Eid al-Fitr follows the Islamic lunar calendar, which is approximately 11 days shorter than the solar calendar. As a result, Eid moves approximately 11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar. The exact date is also subject to local moon sighting, which can vary by a day from the predicted date.