Affordable Eid hosting ideas for a memorable celebration
This is everything I'm doing for my first year hosting.
We’ve spent the last month fasting for Ramadan, and now it’s almost the time to celebrate the best time of the year - Eid. This year, I’ll be hosting Eid for the first time, and I’m super excited.
I’ll be making sure that it feels as special as can be – from indulgent, homemade traditional food, to decorations and fun activities. And I’ll be doing it as affordably as I possibly can.
Article continues belowWhat is Eid?
Eid is the celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. It takes place after approximately 30 days of fasting from sunrise to sunset.
Traditionally, Eid involves spending time with family and friends, eating delicious food and exchanging thoughtful gifts.
When is Eid 2026?
This year, Eid takes place on the evening of Thursday, 19th March. That means that Thursday, 19th March, will be the final day of fasting for Ramadan, and Eid will begin after breaking fast that evening.
Food
Bring a board
Take the stress off making everything yourself, and split the cost by having everyone bring a board. Some fun traditional board options include a stuffed date board, a hummus dip board, and a mezze board.
It’s a great idea to have each family member make their own dishes. Not only is it much more affordable than buying everything yourself, but it means you’ll often get more of a greater variety of delicious dishes, too.
Traditional Eid food ideas
This year, I’ll be doing as many classic Eid dishes as possible from scratch. Some fun ideas I’m planning on making include hummus, harissa potatoes, tabouleh, olives and feta cheeseboard, pita breads, labneh, and sambousek.
Most of these are simple to make and don’t require any expertise in the kitchen. As mentioned above, you could split these so that each guest makes one - that way you’re not stuck in the kitchen all day and can enjoy the celebration.
Sweet treat ideas
Opt to make your own sweet treats instead of purchasing expensive ones. I’m making Turkish delight (an absolute favourite of mine), baklava, and medjool dates stuffed with dark chocolate and pistachios.
Host brunch
Go non-traditional and host your Eid celebration as a brunch instead. Sometimes the cost of bigger celebrations can quickly add up, so something smaller like brunch can help you save.
Make homemade pastries and mini pancakes, served with fresh fruit. Add a side of homemade granola and Greek yoghurt, with tea & coffee.
Eid treat bag
A lovely idea is to send everyone home with a treat bag. But instead of spending money on things to fill them with, simply buy some bags (or reuse old jars) and have everyone fill their bags with food and treats that everyone has made.
Decorations
Reuse decor
It’s always tempting to purchase new decor for every celebration that comes around. Instead, reuse decor from previous years to make your space look special. I have some black and gold decorations from when I hosted New Year's, and it’d be ideal for Eid too.
If you do want to treat yourself to some new decor, my advice is to opt for something that can be used for other celebrations too.
Make your own
This year, make your own Eid decorations to save money. Use Pinterest for inspiration – I’m thinking crescent moons and stars, candles, and paper bunting. You can find affordable supplies from Hobbycraft and The Works.
Head to the supermarket flowers section and make a gorgeous floral arrangement for Eid. Buy three or five bunches of flowers - most of the time, you can find individual bunches for under £5 – and have a go at arranging them yourself for the perfect centrepiece.
Use what you’ve got
Avoid splurging on excessive, non-essential items when you host Eid and use what you’ve got. If you’re anything like me, you might have a drawer full of unused paper plates and napkins, and this is the time to use them.
Activities
A moment of gratification
Set some time aside for a moment of gratification. I previously mentioned the importance of gratitude in my recent article on gentle self-care during Ramadan.
Exciting celebrations without an intention can sometimes run away from you. Engage in a group prayer, or take turns sharing your Ramadan reflections and experiences this year.
Afternoon walk
I love an afternoon walk after eating a big meal, which is great for Eid. During Ramadan, I often spend a lot more time indoors, so getting outside in the Spring air feels wonderful.
It’s a great way to break up the day if you’re planning on spending a whole day celebrating with family and friends.
Garden games
Eid is a beautiful time to come together and spend quality time. Providing that the weather allows for it, get outside and have some fun playing garden games. Some of the most fun include Jenga, Red King, and swingball.
Donation gift basket
Add a thoughtful touch to your Eid celebration and have a donation gift basket out. Let your guests know ahead of time and give them the opportunity to bring something to donate. Think dates, nuts, prayer beads, scented candles, incense, and essential oils.
