After a month of fasting and reflecting on all the blessings that have been given to us, the festive mood for Eid is one that soon approaches. Every year, these are some of the things that I anticipate the most:

Wearing new clothes

One of the joys of waking up on Eid is the prospect of trying on new clothes that I had specifically set aside for this special occasion. Matching salwar kameez with colorful earrings and sandals is one of the best things about the day. 

Going to everyone’s houses 

Sometimes we don’t even need an invite. A lot of my relatives’ places are like an open house where everyone is invited to enjoy good food and entertainment. We talk, laugh, and compliment each other’s outfits (again clothes are very important on this day!) 

Mehndi/Henna

On the night before, sitting around with my cousins and applying mehndi on our hands is so much fun! We play desi music and take turns drying our hands so that the mehndi doesn’t end up on sofas or walls. 

Eidi (money) 

I know I’m not the only one who anticipates the Eid money from my parents, relatives and especially grandparents. It’s like our birthday came early. It’s always been a tradition for the older generation to give gifts in the form of money to kids and children as a show of their love. 

The Food!! 

I saved the best for last, obviously. I think one of the most notable aspects in South Asian culture is the food. From appetizers to main courses to desserts, every dish is made with flavors so delightful that my taste buds salivate from just thinking about them. Hot samosas, delicious biryani, sweet misti, these are only some of the items that are made on this special day.