The joy of children knows no limit during the three days of Eid with plenty of food, sweet treats, new clothes, gifts and Eidia. During Eid, especially on the first day, children receive Eidia or money from elders and they collect it together.
"As children, we looked forward with great anticipation the money we would be gifted on Eid," said Abdullah al Salmani.
Even with modern day malls, the traditional Eid markets, called Habtas, continue to have a special place. The joy of Eid is reflected in many ways as families and friends visit each other.
Ahmed al Kaabi said, “When you are a child it is exciting to go and shop with your own money. It could vary from candies to toys. And for the occasion of Eid, the small shop owners will bring new exceptional commodities that fit the children’s budget of Eidia.”
While parents continue to make plans for the activities of the Eid days, the children will also have busy schedules. The exciting first day of Eid begins by wearing new clothes and attending morning prayers.
“As children our ears were filled with greetings starting with Eid Mubarak! And then comes the coins and notes. It was extremely fun. These childhood memories make us feel obligated to continue the traditions and we collect the change from bank and be ready for the children on the Eid day,” noted Abdullah.
He pointed out that it might be a small charity of 100 or 200 baisas but it makes people happy as we also distribute it in other places such as petrol stations.
“For us charity is not just about giving money, even making someone smile or laugh is charity. We like to help people with money but I feel we can go further and motivate and guide people to do better in life regardless of ethnicity and this is even better than just giving money,” said Abdullah.
So from generation to generation, tradition continues.
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