Traditional decorations add colour to Eid

Festivals are a time for people to adorn their homes with elaborate decorations - and Eid Al Fitr is no different.

Many Muslims plan ahead and shop for new clothes and accessories in time for Eid; they will also spruce up their homes to welcome friends and relatives who drop in to celebrate.

In some countries, the decorations start at the beginning of Ramadan while others put their decorations up during the last few days, as Eid approaches. Homes are adorned with decorations in various colours and patterns as well as lamps hanging in and outside. Often, green flags with a crescent moon are also hung up.

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Green is considered a holy colour amongst Muslims and is generally used in decorations. While some Muslims increase the number of plants and flowers around the house, others whitewash their houses or add green and white lamps and hangings. Shiny green decorative strings are often used on doors and windows of the house or used to spell out the words Eid Mubarak.

Customised Eid cards, cut-outs of crescent moons, paper flowers, envelopes and gift bags are also popular. Some carry ribbons with Eid Mubarak greetings on the day of Eid. In many houses, walls and cabinets are adorned with Eid cards from families and friends.

An easy and cost-effective way of decorating homes is to hang glittery, cut-outs of moons and stars from the ceilings. These days people buy glow-in-the-dark decorations too.

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Quranic verses and pictures of the Kaaba (Islam's holiest shrine, located in Mecca) are also often available in markets. Since Islam is strictly against idol worship, beautiful geometrical designs are preferred to make Eid colourful.

In countries like Egypt and Morocco, lanterns are used as a symbol of Ramadan and are hung across the streets in mosques and houses even during Eid. In other Muslim countries, lights are strung up in public squares and across city streets to add to the festivities of the month.

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