2019/06/04

Date palm groves near Zagora, Morocco

© Frans Lemmens/Getty Images

Here in the Draa River Valley, farmers grow date palms in the oasis town of Zagora, which for many is the last stop before a long journey into the Sahara. Today the Muslim population of Zagora will join billions of Muslims around the world to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. The food-filled holiday marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.During Ramadan, Muslims fast during daylight hours, and break the fast each day at sunset with a meal called iftar. Iftar usually begins with the eating of dates, which is one reason why we’re featuring an image of date palms on our homepage today. Ramadan is also a season for Muslims to refrain from harmful habits such as smoking, and many also engage in charity work or charitable giving. The faithful are rewarded with today’s observance, Eid al-Fitr, where families and friends gather to eat, socialize, and even give gifts to children and close relatives.