Make an Eid al-Fitr Lantern

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Description

In this activity, we will embrace the spirit of Eid by creating paper lanterns. These lanterns symbolize hope and the light of togetherness, reflecting the essence of Eid celebrations.


Resources

A4 paper (any colour)
Scissors
Glue or tape
Pens, sequins, or other decorative materials
LED tea lights (optional)

Instructions

Introduction to Eid and the Lantern-Making Activity
Eid al-Fitr is a significant celebration in Islam, marking the end of Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. Islam is the world's second-largest religion, with over one billion followers known as Muslims. Ramadan is observed from the sighting of one crescent moon to the next, lasting about 30 days. Eid al-Fitr, which translates to the festival of breaking the fast, commences with the sighting of the moon. This festival is a time of joy, where Muslims gather with friends and family, exchange gifts, and enjoy sweet treats like baklava, dates, and Turkish delight to signify celebration. The greeting "Eid Mubarak" is commonly used to wish someone a happy Eid.

In this activity, we will embrace the spirit of Eid by creating paper lanterns. These lanterns symbolize hope and the light of togetherness, reflecting the essence of Eid al-Fitr's celebrations.

Equipment Needed
A4 paper (any colour)
Scissors
Glue or tape
Pens, sequins, or other decorative materials
LED tea lights (optional)


Step-by-Step Instructions

Introduction: Begin by gathering the participants and discussing Eid. Share the significance of Eid and the customs surrounding it.

Preparing the Paper: Have everyone take an A4 sheet of paper. Cut a strip, about three centimetres wide, from the shorter edge. This will be used as a handle later. Save it for the final step.

Folding and Cutting:
Place the remaining larger piece of paper horizontally on a flat surface.
Fold it in half top to bottom, hiding the undecorated side inside.
Draw a line three centimetres from the bottom edge, starting at the fold and stopping three-quarters of the way up. Repeat this step, spacing the lines three to four centimetres apart.

Creating the Lantern:
Cut along the drawn lines from the folded edge, ensuring not to cut through the top.
Carefully open the paper and shape it into a cylinder by gluing the short ends together.
Reinforce the top, middle, and bottom with tape if necessary.
Attach the saved strip as a handle on top.

Decoration: Invite participants to decorate their lanterns with pens, sequins, or other materials.


Safety and Health

Scissor Safety: Ensure close supervision of young people while using scissors. Store sharp objects securely and out of reach.

Fire Hazard: Do not use real candles or flames with the paper lanterns. LED tea lights are a safe alternative.


Reflection
Reflect on the activity by discussing the symbol of light and hope the lantern represents. Engage in a conversation about what participants learned about Eid al-Fitr and how they can express gratitude in their lives. Discuss the importance of community and coming together to celebrate.

Health and Safety
Conduct a thorough risk assessment before the activity.
Ensure all activities are appropriately supervised.
Implement an InTouch process and get approval for the activity.
This lantern-making activity not only fosters creativity but also serves as a meaningful way to learn about and honour the traditions of Eid al-Fitr, emphasizing the universal values of hope, gratitude, and community.


Tags

  • Eid
  • religions around the World
  • religious festivals

Badge Links

  • Creative - Construction
  • Faith - Tell a story
  • World Faiths - Affects
  • World Faiths - Festival
  • World Faiths - Impact