Part of a successful and happy Eid is plans for Eid ahead for how to celebrate our wonderful holiday. Here are some things to keep in mind when developing an Eid day plan to make it fun and festive.
1. Talk it out with everyone
Make a specific plans for Eid TODAY. Sit with the family and discuss what you will do on Eid day. Plan things step-by-step. Where will you go to perform Eid prayers? Where will you go afterward? Will you first go to the local farm to sacrifice an animal (see point number 3)? Get everyone involved and listen to all suggestions.
2. Dress for success
In most Muslim countries Eid is a time for buying new clothing. You can use this time similarly for purchasing not only Eid clothes, but whatever you need for the upcoming season.
3. "Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar...."
Involve the kids, especially the younger ones, in loud Takbirat while going and returning from the Eid Prayer. Practice doing this now so you can avoid off-key renditions of this beautiful chant.
4. Gifts
Make your gift list and hit the mall online or offline as soon as possible. Planning ahead saves not only time, but money as well. You’re also more likely to give more thoughtful gifts instead of picking up whatever’s convenient at the last minute.
5. Family discussion on Eid themes
Delve into the deeper meanings of Eid-al-Adha by reading up on and discussing the place of Prophet Ibrahim in Islam, Hajar, Ismail (peace be upon them all), as well as Hajj. Also incorporate brief excerpts of Hajj travelogues, like those of Malcolm X and Muhammad Asad in your research.
6. Share Eid with the family and neighbors
Plan two Eid dinners: one for the family on Eid day and one with neighbors the following day. You could also share some dishes on Eid day with your neighbors.
7. Organize a road trip
Take a family trip to a new place the family hasn’t yet seen. Recite the Takbirat as you go, sing Eid songs, eat and stop in between for prayers.
8. Plan tech-free party time
Please avoid TV or movies on Eid break. Eid is family and fun time, and you don't necessarily need films, video games or television to have a good time.
Also, make a rule that for at least two hours on Eid day, not counting during prayers, all cellphones should be off.
9. Decorate the house for Eid
This will help liven up the atmosphere. Use balloons, banners, streamers, lights, and more. Look up creative ideas and brainstorm with the family. Choose a theme, if you like.
10. Get everyone involved in a school presentation on aspects of Eid
The whole family can get involved in preparing a school presentation about Eid, especially since Christmas is coming up. Kids can see their Muslim classmates celebrating too.
11. Encourage the kids to make handmade gifts and cards
Why not help children make gifts and cards for one another and other family members? Not only is this inexpensive, handmade gifts tend to come from the heart, and less from the wallet.
12. Start a family project
Why not mark Eid with a new family project? For example, starting a family library. Discuss the issue practically: how many books, which kinds, how much to spend, where will the library be set up in the home, etc.
13. Share with needy kids
During Eid, remember children in need by encouraging a family donation from each member for to a child in a specific part of the world.
14. Discuss the Eid day menu
If you are responsible for preparing the food on Eid day, consult other members of the family. Consultation may help you involve them in preparation and cleanup as well.
The above mentioned were some important plans for Eid, share with you.
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