During Ramadan, fasting is required of all adults, with the exception of some. The exceptions are those who are elderly, ill, persons travelling, pregnant, nursing, and diabetics. Any person suffering from chronic illness and women who are menstruating are also exempt from fasting.
There are five pillars of Islam, and sawm (fasting) is one of them. The other four pillars are Salat (prayer), Shahada (faith), Zakat (charity), and Hajj (pilgrimage)
Ramadan concludes with Eid ul-Fitr, a celebration which follows the period of fasting. It is commonly known as a day of joy and thanking Allah for the strength in accomplishing the spiritual month. It is a day of gratitude, prayers, unity and happiness. For a large number of people, the day usually consists of attending the Mosque, praying, visiting family and friends, exchanging gifts, giving to charity, and a lot of eating!
The Dappled Odysseys 