Food traditions are a central component of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. And that's especially true during the celebrations at the fast-breaking holiday at the end.  So how do Muslims here in China prepare for this important feast? CCTV reporter went to the westernmost city of Kashgar to find out.

The livestock market in Kashgar opens only on Sundays. This is where you can find one of the most mouthwatering dishes in Xinjiang - grilled mutton kebab. Animals like sheep and cows are an essential part of everyday life for the Uyghur people and everyone is looking for something special for the fast-breaking festival.

There are few places in the world where visitors can actively take part in traditions that stretch back over thousands of years, like the animal bazaar of Kashgar. From the hustle and bustle here, you can tell a big festival is coming as the end of Ramadan draws near.

"It is totally different to Europe. It smells a little bit strange (not nice) here, but the experience is worth it," said Francesco, Italian tourist.

"A lot of places that you visit. You expect to see traditional culture but you don't find it because things have changed so much and everything is so modernized. Here it is still very traditional," said Jenna, British tourist.

While the buying and selling of livestock is still a men's business, Uyghur women are also kept busy prior to the festival. Sweets and snacks like "Sanzi" - a pyramid of fried, twisted noodles is a must for the celebration.

The rituals of Ramadan are a spiritual and a physical cleansing, and Uyghurs also want to make their home clean and tidy for the festival. For example, all the curtains need to be washed.

"Like Christmas in the west and Spring festival for Han Chinese, this is the most important festival for us and we want our homes to look perfect," said  Buaijier Maimaiti, local resident.

And after a day's work, the family gathers around the table and at last break their fast, a ritual which draws them together and renews their bonds.

She also said, "It's been a busy weekend for us preparing for Eid al-Fitr. At the end of the day, seeing all our family members together makes it all worthwhile."

At its heart, Eid al-Fitr truly is a celebration of love and of togetherness. And Muslims around the world are looking forward to celebrating at home with families and friends, and preparing a grand feast for them. Food is love. And both must be given freely.