In an unusual twist of the calendar, Malaysians are set to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri twice in the year 2033! Yes, you read that right, twice in 2033!
Rare two Hari Raya Aidilfitri in Malaysia for 2033
Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which follows the solar cycle, the Islamic calendar is based on lunar months and is approximately 10 to 11 days shorter each year. Because of this, the end of Ramadan, which is Hari Raya Aidilfitri, continues to move earlier annually on the Gregorian calendar.
This shifting cycle will bring the first Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration in 2033 as early as 3 January, Monday, followed by the second celebration falling on 23 December, Friday, making it a rare occasion where the festive season returns before the year ends. The second Raya celebration will even overlap with Christmas weekend, creating a once in a blue moon dual festive period for Malaysians of all backgrounds.
Image Credit: Time and Date
Malaysia last celebrated two Hari Raya in the year 2000
While this may sound surprising, it’s not entirely fresh. The last time Malaysia experienced two Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations in one year was back in 2000, when celebrations took place in both early January and late December. Due to the 33-year lunar cycle alignment with the solar calendar, such double celebrations only occur once every few decades.
According to the Hijri calendar, Hari Raya Aidilfitri is celebrated on the first of Syawal. The celebration date changes around 11 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar due to the lunar year’s shorter duration. It eventually cycles through several months and in unusual situation like 2033, it reappears in the same year.
Get ready for a festive start and end to 2033
2033 is looking to be a very wonderful year with two Hari Raya Aidilfitri festivities planned, one to begin the year and another to end it. From ketupat to kuih raya, Malaysians will have two chances to get back together with family, seek forgiveness, and fully enjoy the festivities.
Planners, schools, and business may want to prepare in advance, as both festive periods are likely to be marked by extended holidays, balik kampung travel, and overlapping public celebrations, especially with the second Raya comes with Christmas, making it one of the most festive periods in recent memory.
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