Eid al-Fitr is the celebration of the end of Ramadan by Albanian Muslims and is an official public holiday in Albania.

Traditionally, Muslims start the Eid celebrations by eating something sweet. The traditional sweet is called a ma’amoul, or simply the ‘sweet Eid’, a butter cookie filled with dates or other dried fruits.

The day is continued by partaking in a morning prayer service at the mosque or other public space. The prayer is followed by a sermon, during which the imam asks for forgiveness, mercy, and peace for everyone.

Non-muslims usually don’t observe much of the festivities as most people spend time at home with their families where they share a large meal. It’s also common to donate money to the poor.

A common greeting during Eid al-Fitr is “Eid Mubarak” which means “blessed festival” in Arabic. A typical response is “Khair Mubarak”,  a wish of blessings to the other person.