From the Sunnah of the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam on this festive occasion:

1. It is recommended to recite takbeer from sunset of the night before (the actual start of ‘Eid), until the imaam comes to lead prayer- the Companions radhi’allaahu ‘anhum would say it aloud on the way to prayer up to the takbeer of prayer: 

Allaahu akbar allaahu akbar allaahu akbar, laa ilaaha illallaah, wallaahu akbar allaahu akbar, wa lillaahilHamd.

Allah is the Greatest (3 times), there is none worthy of worship but Him, and Allah is the Greatest (2 times), and to Him is all praise.

2. Zakaat al-Fitr is due on this day, and it should be paid before the ‘Eid prayer.  It is best to give food as the Companions radhi’allaahu ‘anhum did.

3. It is strongly recommended for men as well as women to attend the ‘Eid prayer (some scholars hold it is fardh ‘ayn – obligatory on an individual level, for men).  As for women, if they cannot pray they should avoid the place of actual prayer, but still attend the festivities.

4. It is recommended to do ghusl (ritual bath) for the ‘Eid prayer.  For men: wear your best clothes and perfume yourselves. Women: as on usual days, don’t wear fancy clothes that would attract attention to yourselves WHEN YOU GO OUT.  In the presence of females and mahram (allowed relatives), dress as you wish.

5. It is not allowed to fast on ‘Eid since it is a celebration (and disliked on Fridays for no reason).  Eat an odd number of dates before leaving for ‘Eid prayer, as was the custom of our beloved Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam.

6. The prayer itself is 2 raka’aat (units) with 7 takbirs the first raka’ah and 5 the second.  The khutbah (talk) at the end is optional (and divided in 2 parts), but it is still forbidden to talk during it if other people are listening.  If you don’t want to attend, simply leave the prayer area before talking.

7. The Companions radhi’allaahu ‘anhum would say to each other:

Taqabbalallaahu minnaa wa minkum.

May Allah accept it from us and you (the month of fasting).

8. It is prescribed to go to the ‘Eid prayer by one route and return by another to see as many members of the community as possible.  People should greet one another with salaam and good cheer, but this shouldn’t lead to haram actions like shaking hands with, and hugging, non-mahrams.

9. Don’t resort to haram things such as music, etc. to celebrate – have some good clean fun with your friends and family.  Rather stick to anasheed (unaccompanied songs) and what is allowed.  Enjoy!