Eid Day 22

Today is the end of Ramadan and what a more special place to celebrate this holiday than in the city of Fes.  Many Moroccans consider Fes to be the spiritual and cultural center of all of Morocco (who can argue this).  Ramadan lasts approximately one month and it's start and ending date are determined by the moon cycles.  Eid is a day for Muslims to celebrate with family and friends. As a non Muslim I did not have a family to celebrate the holiday with, but that did not stop me from doing some people watching. It was nice to see all the Moroccans dressed in their finest clothes.  A special tradition on Eid is to dress toddlers as little brides and grooms.  Women of all ages get henna on their hands and feet.  We were told that on Eid the poor would go from door to ask for Zakat, charity.  This tradition is longer closely obsevered and Zakat is donated in other ways. Today when it is Eid some people will hand out candy or toys to children.  One of the women on my trip had brought lots of toys to give out to kids at local schools, she had plenty left over.  So on Eid we stood out side our hotel and gave out candy and glow sticks to the people of the neighborhood.

Impressions: I enjoy the close knit relationship the neighborhood has. Family and community is important to all Moroccans.

Massalama, Eid Mabrouk!


The Traveling Educator