Page "Eid-ul-Fitr" Paragraph 85

In the People's Republic of China, out of 56 officially recognized ethnic groups, Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated by at least 10 ethnic groups that are predominantly Muslim.

These groups are said to total 18 million according to official statistics, but some observers say the actual number may be much higher.

It is also a public holiday in China in certain regions, including two Province Prefecture Level regions, Ningxia and Xinjiang.

All residents in these areas, regardless of religion, are entitled to either a one-day or three-day official holiday.

Outside the Muslim-majority regions, only Muslims are entitled to a one-day holiday.

In Xinjiang province, Eid ul-Fitr is even celebrated by Han Chinese population during which holiday supplies of mutton, lamb and beef are distributed to households as part of welfare program funded by government agencies, public and private institutions, and businesses.