Nearly ten years ago when I began speaking at local libraries, churches and schools about Islam, Muslims, Ramadan, and/or ‘Eid, I would carry a bag of educational materials like handouts, brochures, power point presentations and more instructional things of that nature. It wasn’t until I started going to public schools with my friends who have children that I realized how fun it would be to pass out gift bags of goodies that would also do their own explaining about Muslim holidays, something the kids could take home to parents. I quickly realized how much fun it was for adults to get them, too.
Explain ‘Eid with decorative inserts that talk about the holiday in a concise way
Since then, I’ve been creating and passing out different versions of goodie bags to all of my neighbors, co-workers, and anyone I felt comfortable enough giving them to who might be interested in learning a little more about our holiday. The bags are cute and instructive and festive. You can make them with any type of bags (check resources at the end) and tie them up with cute colored ribbons and even attach your business card, family name or child’s name if making these for your child’s classmates.
Inside I include almonds, chocolate-covered raisins, yogurt-covered raisins, chocolate-covered almonds You can do whatever type of candies you like, of course. I typically see a lot of dried dates in favor bags at Muslim weddings and aqeeqahs (celebration after a baby is born), but keep in mind that many of your neighbors might not know what it is or how to consume it unless you tell them.
I also include an insert on one side that explains what Ramadan is, while on the other side there is an insert that explains what ‘Eid is.
They’re really easy to do and you only need a few things, but you do need to set aside some extra time to put them together.
Once my short Ramad and and ‘Eid summary are typed up (4 to a page), I print them out on nice resume paper. These were off-white/cream because I like that color, but you can obviously use a color you like and probably even get fancier. I then use the Arabian-style decorative scissors by Fiskars to cut them out and make pretty edges. I will try to get a downloadable PDF of the inserts to everyone soon, insha’allah.
Next, I just add all the candies (mix them all up in a large bowl first- makes it go a lot faster), then add the insert cards and tie up nicely. They look so cute and really presentable if you’re taking a whole bunch to a school or gathering. I like to bring them on a nice decorative tray or plate to pass out or allow guests to grab for themselves.
So, what do you think? Is this something you might give to your neighbors, friends or co-workers to help them understand what Ramadan and ‘Eid is all about? What other suggestions do you have for making pretty favor bags or gifts for a similar cause?
Download these plain goodie bag inserts with your own colored or textured paper and use decorative scissors to make the edges elegant and pretty, too!
Download the Ramadan Goodie Bag Insert Card HERE.
Download the Eid ul Fitr Goodie Bag Insert Card HERE.
Looking for something for Eid ul Adha?
Download the Eid ul Adha Goodie Bag Insert Card HERE.
Additional Resources
Check out sites like ModernEid.com and SilverEnvelope.com for Ramadan and ‘Eid gift bags and party supplies. Want something already made? The Sweet Dawah™ Cookie or Cupcake Kits by Silver Envelope in collaboration with My Halal Kitchen might be exactly what you’re looking for! Check out all the beautiful and unique varieties HERE.