Between Joy and Justice: 8 Ways to Celebrate Eid with Gaza in Mind
Eid is a time of joy—but this year, it arrives heavy with sorrow. The brutal assault on our people in Gaza continues, and the number of martyrs and wounded grows by the day. In this painful reality, many Muslims find themselves torn between two duties: celebrating Eid as a sacred Islamic tradition, and standing in solidarity with Gaza, refusing to forget its suffering.
So how do we strike a balance? How can we embrace the joy of Eid without feeling like we’re dancing on wounds? Here are 8 thoughtful ways to honour both our faith and our conscience—celebrating Eid while keeping Gaza in our hearts:
1. Remember: Eid joy is an act of worship
Islam encourages us to show joy on Eid. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Every nation has its festival, and this is ours” (Bukhari and Muslim). That joy doesn’t have to be loud or extravagant—it can be as simple as a smile, a warm greeting, or making a child laugh. Expressing joy in a mindful, modest way becomes a sign of strength and resilience—not detachment from reality.
2. Set aside part of the Eid gift money to support Gaza
Eidiya—the money given to children during Eid—is something they look forward to all year. Use it as a chance to teach compassion and generosity. Encourage your kids to donate a portion of their Eidiya to Gaza, and make it a family tradition. Even a small amount carries a powerful lesson.
3. Wear symbols of solidarity with Palestine
There’s no reason we can’t celebrate Eid and show support for Palestine at the same time. Wearing something simple like a keffiyeh or a pin with the Palestinian flag can send a strong message: that Palestine lives in our hearts, even on days of celebration.
4. Keep Gaza in the Eid sermon
The Eid khutbah (sermon) reaches a wide audience, making it a powerful moment to raise awareness. Encourage imams and mosque leaders to include Gaza in their sermons—mentioning the suffering, calling for support, and making du’aa (prayers). It keeps the cause alive in our hearts and minds.
5. Skip posting flashy celebration photos on social media
Social media can spread solidarity—but it can also come off as tone-deaf. Sharing extravagant Eid moments might unintentionally hurt those who are grieving or living through destruction. Let’s use our platforms to share meaningful messages, prayers, and reminders, instead of showing off.
6. Don’t stop the activism—Eid is part of the cause
Eid doesn’t mean we pause our support for the oppressed. In fact, family gatherings and community events are great opportunities to spread awareness. You can join protests, support fundraising campaigns, or simply share informative and supportive content online—even during Eid.
7. Bring joy to children from families in crisis
If there are families around you grieving or struggling, do what you can to bring a smile to their children’s faces. A small gift, an invitation to celebrate with you—simple gestures like these reflect the true spirit of Eid: compassion, care, and community.
8. Make du’aa for Palestine a core part of your Eid
Eid is a time of prayer as much as celebration. Don’t forget to include Gaza in your takbeerat and supplications. Teach your children that one of the most powerful gifts we can give is a heartfelt prayer for the people of Palestine—especially in times of hardship.
In the end… Eid can be joyful and mindful
We’re not asked to cancel Eid, nor to pretend nothing is happening. What we’re called to do is celebrate in a way that fits the moment—with hope, with heart, and with a sense of purpose. Let’s show the world that this ummah, no matter how wounded, never gives up. Instead, it turns its pain into strength, unity, and love.
Eid Mubarak—and may Gaza’s day of joy come soon.
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