13 May 2021

Eid al-Fitr (known locally as Idulfitri or Lebaran) is one of the most significant religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide, including Indonesia. 

It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is a joyous celebration that involves prayers, congregations, social gatherings, and family reunions. Food and festivity go hand in hand with gifting and giving to charity (zakat al-Fitr). However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic situation, festivities are likely to be subdued this year. 

Here’s all you need to know about Eid al-Fitr 2021 in Indonesia:

When is Eid al-Fitr 2021?

The Indonesian government announced that the first day of Shawwal month, which marks the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, would fall this Thursday (May 13, 2021).

Is Eid al-Fitr a public holiday?

Eid is a two-day public holiday in Indonesia. Most shops, government offices/agencies, schools, businesses, and organizations may be closed or have altered opening times during the celebration to allow families to celebrate with their loved ones.

Theme parks and other attractions are typically busy, however this year, with a range of restrictions in place to curb the spread of coronavirus, many theme parks, and attractions are likely to be closed or remain open under strict health protocols and limited capacity.

How will Covid-19 impact the celebrations?

Typically, early morning congregational Eid prayers are held in mosques, community centers, and outdoor spaces. But due to the Covid-19 pandemic situation, the Indonesian government has recommended that people should do their Eid prayers at home if the area where they live is still a pandemic emergency (red zone and orange zone).

How is Eid al-Fitr celebrated in Bali?

Bali is a predominantly Hindu island, so Eid al-Fitr festivities here are not as prominent as in other parts of Indonesia, like Jakarta, Sumatera, or Java, for instance. Normally, the Eid al-Fitr holiday week is considered a popular holiday time for Indonesians outside of Bali and many will come here for a vacation.

However, to prevent Covid-19 cases from surging, Bali officials have previously announced that domestic visitors are unable to gain access to the island from the 6th to 17th of May 2021.

Lastly, how do you wish someone a ‘Happy Eid’?

In most parts of the Muslim world, Eid Mubarak is the most popular Eid al-Fitr greeting. But in Indonesia, it is more common to greet people with Selamat Idulfitri or Selamat Lebaran, which simply means… Happy Eid!