Eid Under the Moscow Sky
For many international students, life abroad is a journey of discovery and adaptation. As an Afghan student studying at the Higher School of Economics (HSE) in Moscow, I often find myself balancing academic life with cultural traditions. One of the most emotional times of the year for me is Eid al-Fitr, a festival that marks the end of Ramadan. Back home, Eid means family breakfasts, laughter, and warm hugs that make every moment unforgettable. But in Moscow, far from my family, the festival takes on a new meaning one of unity, diversity, and resilience.
Finding the Spirit of Eid in Moscow
In the days leading up to Eid, students from different backgrounds begin to feel the excitement of the approaching festival. The most important part of Eid morning is the Eid prayer, and for Muslims in Moscow, the central place for it is the Moscow Cathedral Mosque one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Russia.
Located near Prospekt Mira metro station, the mosque becomes a vibrant center of faith and togetherness on Eid morning. I still remember my first time attending there: streets were filled with people dressed in colorful traditional clothes Afghans in shalwar kameez, Uzbeks, Tatars, Arabs, Africans, and Muslims from many other countries. Everyone greeted each other with smiles and heartfelt words of “Eid Mubarak!”
Performing the Eid prayer there is an unforgettable experience. The golden dome of the mosque shines in the morning sunlight, and thousands of voices rise together in prayer. Despite the crowd, there is a deep sense of peace and belonging. In that moment, Moscow feels like home.
After the Prayer: A Celebration of Friendship
After the prayer, the courtyard and surrounding streets turn into a lively scene of greetings, photos, and joyful conversations. Students take group pictures in front of the mosque, exchange sweets, and make plans for the rest of the day.
That’s when I met several fellow students from HSE and other universities some from Central Asia, others from the Middle East or Africa. We shared our experiences of fasting during the long Russian summer days, laughed about our cooking adventures in dorm kitchens, and talked about how our families celebrate Eid back home.
The picture I took that morning standing with a friend Raihanullah Mohmand in front of the mosque, both of us in traditional Afghan clothes captures the beauty of that moment. It’s not just a photo; it’s a memory of friendship, culture, and spiritual connection that transcends borders.
Where to Celebrate: Parks, Cafés, and Gatherings
Eid in Moscow is not only about prayer it’s about coming together. After the mosque, many students go out to enjoy the city’s open spaces and halal food spots.
For those who want a peaceful walk, Gorky Park and Zaryadye Park are two of the best choices. The autumn or summer weather makes them perfect places for group picnics and conversations. You’ll find students sitting on the grass, sharing snacks, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of joy.
When it comes to food, Moscow has plenty of halal-friendly restaurants where you can celebrate Eid with friends. HalalBro near Belorusskaya, Farsh Burger near Tverskaya, or Chaykhona No. 1 in several districts are popular choices. These places offer a mix of Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Russian dishes perfect for a student-friendly budget. For those who want to test some Afghani traditional food, can visit Afghan Kabab and Takhar restaurants near to Luyblino metro station.
For those who prefer a quieter setting, some international student groups at HSE organize small Eid dinners in dormitories or rented cafés. These gatherings often include traditional dishes, games, and cultural music a warm reminder of home, thousands of kilometers away.
On the first day of Eid Al-Fiter after the prayer, me with my Afghan brothers in Afghani cloths, we went to Groky Park and took a few pictures. We had very joyful moments. After that, we went to Afghan Kabab restaurant and tested Afghani Kabuli Pulav and Sikh Kabab.
Reflections: The Meaning of Eid Abroad
Celebrating Eid away from home has taught me that faith and culture are not limited by geography. The heart of Eid lies not only in prayer but in community in every smile, every shared meal, and every friendship formed far from one’s homeland.
As students in Moscow, we learn to blend our traditions with our new environment. We become cultural ambassadors showing others what Eid truly means: peace, gratitude, and togetherness.
For me, Eid in Moscow is a reminder that even in a foreign city, surrounded by people from every corner of the world, it’s possible to feel at home. The experience connects us, teaches us, and makes our student life richer and more meaningful.
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