For Somalis, the celebration of Id-al-Fitr is a religious holiday that not only holds spiritual significance, but also encompasses meaning in all areas of their life. The three-day festival is a time when all Somalis come together as one, united by a common ancestry and underlying principles of existence in order to restore a feeling of optimism and determination to achieve future success (Abdullahi 2001).

       From a religious aspect, Id-al-Fitr is one of the most holy days in the lunar calendar. Somalis praise Allah and all of Islam on this day for bringing an end to Ramadan and a trying month characterized by fasting and sacrifices. Somalis regard Allah with great thanks for watching over them and rewarding them for their obedience during the month of Ramadan. Somalis devote a large part of their lives to religion and their Muslim loyalty. Somalis gladly welcome the joyous days of Id-al-Fitr and are truly grateful for the stress-free and pleasurable atmosphere of the holiday because it is not common in the often exhausting Somali lifestyle (Embers 2001).

       One focal aspiration for all Somalis during the festival is to fulfill all of God's commands by doing good deeds. On this day Somalis forget all of their old grudges and devote their time and money to those less fortunate than themselves. Giving charity or gifts, called Sadaqah, is a huge aspect of Id-al-fitr (Somalia Cultural Profiles Project 2001). In years before, gifts of food and supplies were given to those who were not well off or struggling to support themselves, but today gifts of money are more commonly exchanged. Although this gesture is not required, almost all Somali families manage to give a fellow Somali at least a small gift to demonstrate their unconditional devotion and a common bond (Abdullahi 2001). This sense of caring for one another represents the widespread attitude of Somalis during this time. For the three-day festival, social barriers are disregarded and replaced by an overwhelming feeling of acceptance and brotherhood. Id-al-Fitr is a time when Somalis of all strata of life come together for a common cause and a joint celebration. It is during these days that Somalis forget the struggles and pressures that consume their everyday life and focus on the more important aspects of their lives such as loved ones.

       Just as the traditional social rankings are disregarded, the customary boundaries that separate men and women in everyday life are temporarily set aside for the celebration (Embers 2001). Normally, a woman's day would consist of caring for the children, cooking and completing any unfinished housework. Women are also not normally allowed to attend services at the Mosque with the men. During the Id-al-Fitr celebration men and women rejoice together and are also allowed to dance with one another on this special occasion, which is only permitted at very select events. Elders, who normally follow the commands of the Koran very precisely, overlook such decrees, permitting all Somalis to venture out of their usual confines to share in the excitement with other Somalis, regardless of age or gender. In a sense, the celebration of Id-al-fitr serves as a form of social control and a leveling mechanism between men and women, as well as throughout all of Somali society. The celebration reduces difference among individuals by establishing the atmosphere of an egalitarian society in which all individuals are treated with the same sense of respect and appreciation.

       During the days of Id-al-Fitr Somalis attempt to overlook any transformation or modernization that has occurred within their society. They try to disregard any societal divides and unite as one community for a common cause. The goal for the holiday is to create an equally enjoyable time for all Somalis, and a setting characterized by communitas, or “a bond uniting people over and above any formal social bonds” (Turner and Turner 1982). This environment ensures that everyone partakes in the festivities celebrating the end of the fast and three joyous days spent feasting with family and friends. For those who are less fortunate or who are in great need, Id-al-Fitr is a time in which they can experience a sense of love and companionship from their fellow countrymen and encounter the rare feeling of equivalence. Wherever Somalis may be in their lives, Id-al-Fitr is a time when all Somalis connect with their religion as well as each other.