
When Ramadan ends, it's time to celebrate! We've compiled a guide on all things Hari Raya Aidilfitri – what it's all about, and what you can do throughout the month.
So you’ve pulled through the whole month of Ramadan – well done! Now’s the time to celebrate Eid ul-Fitr, AKA Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Hari Raya Puasa in Singapore. This month-long festival marks the end of fasting and encourages forgiveness and thanksgiving. Don’t mistake it for the Muslim new year, though, because it’s not. Here’s everything you need to know about the Hari Raya celebration in Singapore.
All you need to know about Hari Raya Aidilfitri in Singapore
What is Hari Raya Aidilfitri?
Hari Raya Aidilfitri, or Hari Raya Puasa, is a significant occasion for Muslims, as it marks the end of the fasting month. It’s a time for forgiveness, as folks offer their apologies for wrongdoings committed in the past year. Family and friends also get together to strengthen their bonds and remember those who have passed on. The celebration is more commonly known as Hari Raya or just Raya in Singapore. The term “hari raya” means “day of celebration”.
Contrary to popular belief, Hari Raya isn’t a celebration of the Muslim New Year! In fact, Hari Raya Puasa falls on the first day of Syawal, the tenth month in the Islamic calendar. This year’s celebration will take place on Wednesday, 10 April 2024.
What are the standard Hari Raya greetings?
The most common (and traditional) greeting that Muslims in Singapore use is “Selamat Hari Raya”, which means “Happy Hari Raya”. This is sometimes followed by “maaf zahir dan batin”, which loosely translates to “I seek forgiveness from you”. Some folks also use “Eid Mubarak” to greet each other.
What happens on Hari Raya?

On the morning of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, family members seek forgiveness from their elders after prayers at the mosque. A tradition observed by most families is wearing baju kurung or baju melayu in the same colours to symbolise unity, which we find absolutely adorable! Oh, and little ones often receive green packets of money.
What else can you see during Hari Raya?
Muslims are big on decorations, so you’ll see plenty of Hari Raya adornments in their homes. You can often see colourful fairy string lights on the windows of Muslim households too – make a game of it with the kids the next time you’re driving around the neighbourhood at night, and see how many of these “lampu lap-lip” you can spot! Other decorations include “Selamat Hari Raya” cutouts, ribbon ketupats, the crescent moon and star garlands. Of course, what’s Hari Raya without the delicious spread? You can easily spot hearty dishes such as beef rendang and sayur lodeh alongside goodies like pineapple tarts, kueh bangkit, and kueh makmur.
What to do during Hari Raya Puasa in Singapore
1. Savour Hari Raya dishes at various restaurants

Missed your chance to nom on the various iftar promotions? Fret not, folks – some promotions are still running well into the first week of Hari Raya! Check out our Ramadan guide to see which restaurants you can hit up for your Aidilfitri-inspired meals.
2. Catch Hari Raya specials on the telly

Get into the festive mood with television shows, movies, and specials on Suria and meWATCH. Join the rest of Singapore in ushering in the festivities with Salam Lebaran 2024, the annual variety show airing on the eve of Hari Raya. The show will feature musical performances and skits by local artists. Kids can enjoy Ra Ra Raya!, an hour-long children’s drama, on the big day. And that’s not all – there are many other Raya specials you can catch throughout the month.
3. Last chance to check out the dazzling lights at Geylang Serai

Now is your last chance to check out the iconic lights at Geylang Serai! This year’s theme, “Semangat Raya – Forging a New Singapore Spirit”, explores the core of citizenry, how Hari Raya nurtures the ‘kampung spirit’, fostering a profound sense of togetherness and mutual support. There was even a special drone show on the opening night! You can sneak a final glimpse until 10 April, 7pm to midnight.
4. All aboard the Hari Raya-themed public transport

See if you can spot (and board) the Hari Raya-themed trains while you’re out and about this festive season. There are decorated trains across the North-South, East-West, Circle and Thomson rail lines, as well as decorations on the 960 bus service. You have until the 7 May 2024 to track them down! And there’s more – you can also enjoy Hari Raya-themed festive murals at Ang Mo Kio, Paya Lebar, Boon Lay and Woodlands MRT stations. Let us know if you spot them!
5. Neighbourhood Ramadan and Hari Raya Events by People’s Association
Neighbourhoods and communities across Singapore are hosting many Ramadan and Hari Raya events throughout April! From bazaars to porridge distribution and buka puasa (break fast) events, find one near you on their website.
Details: Various dates throughout April – check the website for details.
Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri!