Date palm groves near Zagora, Morocco

© Frans Lemmens/Getty Image

Desert groves. Breaking the fast for Eid

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.