There is the age-old practice in cities and villages of taking meals to the nearest neighborhoods on the first day of Eid Al-Fitr. Men of the neighborhood meet with each other and exchange Eid greetings soon after the Eid prayers and they together share the meals.

This social tradition still exists despite the many factors that threaten its continuity, especially with the rapid modernization of lifestyle. Many elderly people and young men, who enjoy this tradition, are worried that this practice might become extinct.

The neighborhood banquet is a communication means between friends and relatives, where they can greet residents of the neighborhood before they greet people who live outside it.

This habit is present in governorates and villages because of their small spaces in comparison with major cities. The gathering method differs in various parts of the Kingdom, each area having its own style, but despite these variations and in light of the modern technologies that facilitate easy access, the morning banquet is still in use, according to researcher and historian Mohammad Abdulaziz Al-Qowai’.

He says this habit is very important and can’t be ignored or stopped.

Al-Qowai’, author of “The Forefathers’ Heritage,” said the decline of this practice does not mean it is becoming extinct, because people greet and visit each other during Eid, and the neighborhood banquet is a form of social communication.

He called on all people, young and old, to hold on to this practice and educate young people about its importance, because it reflects care about maintaining communication between members of the community, and strengthens the value of communications between relatives and friends, which is part of our religion and traditions.

Al-Qowai’ said in the past families used to place their banquets in a well-known area in the neighborhood where all residents and visitors gathered. Currently town people put these banquets in their homes and ask others to join them.

He said small villages and governorates are more committed to this practice.