Idul Fitri on Gili Air: A Celebration of Faith, Family, and Community
Idul Fitri on Gili Air Idul Fitri on Gili Air As the final days of Ramadan draw near and the crescent moon prepares to signal the arrival of Syawal, the entire island of Gili Air begins to transform. But during Idul Fitri—also known as Lebaran—the island truly comes alive with the joyful spirit of celebration, reflection, and togetherness. Idul Fitri, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is one of the most significant holidays in Indonesia. While it is celebrated across the archipelago in countless ways, on Gili Air, the festivities take on a uniquely intimate and community-focused character, shaped by the island’s small population, strong social bonds, and the rhythm of island life. The Final Days of Ramadan: Preparing the Heart and the Home In the week leading up to Idul Fitri, the atmosphere on Gili Air begins to shift. For a month, local Muslims have been fasting from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and negative behavior, while spending extra time in prayer an...
