Eid Al-Fitr 2025: 5 tips to handle difficult relatives and still have fun during the holidays

Eid Al Fitr 2025 is upon us, and while it's a time for joy, gratitude, and delicious food, there's one little detail that can make you sweat: Difficult relatives. Truly, family gatherings can sometimes feel like an obstacle course. But don’t worry—this Eid, we’ve got your back. Here's your fun guide to navigating the holidays with grace, humor, and the survival skills of a seasoned family diplomat.

 Remind yourself that you can’t control other people’s behaviour—only your reaction to it.

Take a few deep breaths

 One key thing to remember: Your relatives aren’t going to transform overnight just because it’s the holidays. If you’ve found them difficult before, you’ll likely find them difficult now too. The key is to not expect some miraculous change in their attitude, because you set yourself up for disappointment. The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, so setting unrealistic expectations will just upset you further. So, take a few deep breaths before you start planning for the festivities.

Smile and nod

 When you’re cornered by that relative who’s made it their mission to ‘advise’ you on everything from your job to your love life, here’s the ultimate weapon: the Polite Smile and Silent Nod. Nod along to the rhythm of their words, make eye contact, and throw in a ‘Ah, yes, I see,’ or ‘Interesting point!’ This works wonders when you need to keep the peace but don't want to get strapped into a heated debate. It's an art—master it, and you'll glide through conversations effortlessly.

 Strategically steer conversations

Master the art of redirecting awkward or heated topics. Is your cousin revving up for a debate? Pivot gracefully by saying, “Let’s not spoil the dessert! Who wants to hear a funny holiday story instead?’ Armed with a few neutral, feel-good anecdotes, you can guide conversations back to safer ground.

Pick a good seating position

 Here’s a pro-tip: Your seat at the table is your territory. If you can, strategically place yourself between the relatives you love and the ones you know will start a row. This way, you get a full-on buffer of positive vibes, and you can easily navigate the awkwardness by engaging in delightful small talk with the ones who make you smile. It’s not about avoiding family, it’s about surviving in the safest spot!

However, sometimes, things happen that aren’t in our control. So pick your battles. See what’s worth fighting for, and whether you should let it go. If you know that one relative will invariably pick up a sensitive topic, think of how you will handle it, without getting upset.

Enlist allies

Chances are, you’re not the only one wary of the family dynamic. Team up with a like-minded relative or friend who can help diffuse tense situations or share an inside joke to lighten the mood. Just remember to keep it kind—you’re here to enjoy, not escalate.

 Distract with dessert

 Eid without dessert? Unthinkable. Now, here's your secret weapon: get everyone distracted by the endless sweets. The sight of baklava, kunafa, and Turkish delight will ensure no one’s worried about what you're doing with your life. Not only will your relatives be happily munching away, but you’ll get a nice little break from the interrogation zone.

Remove yourself, if necessary

 Now just by chance, someone says something that will upset you, take a few deep breaths. Politely excuse yourself. Go to the washroom, take a few deep breaths and return. Remember to keep your cool and don’t be argumentative. That is, if you don’t want the festivities ending on a sour note. There is no point engaging in verbal battles, she adds. Look for the quiet space in your home, where you can just be by yourself for a while. You don’t have a compulsion to be around them all the time, she says.

 Follow self-care rituals

It might sound mundane and drab, but you will need self-care rituals to avoid getting overwhelmed by your extended family members.

Do whatever it takes. Yoga, books, or just watching a film. However, make sure you’re one step ahead to avoid last-minute chaos. Do what you can before time, so you will feel less stressed in front of your family members.

When all else fails, find humour

Sometimes, the only thing to do is laugh. That awkward silence after your aunt’s “when are you getting married?” question? Comedy gold. Your cousin’s latest conspiracy theory? A future anecdote for your friends. Humor can turn even the most stressful situations into memorable—and strangely endearing—holiday moments.