0:00
Here at the famous Al-Hamidier market, it's one of the busiest times of the year
0:05
The once stagnant markets are now buzzing with residents from the Syrian capital
0:10
as they stock up on pastries, sweets and gifts for the annual Eid celebrations to mark the end of Ramadan
0:16
There are so many differences now that Syria is liberated and has a merchant, I am relieved
0:23
It's the first Eid since the toppling of Bashar al-Assad's regime last December
0:28
and Syrians are regaining some of the spirit last after years of war
0:33
Over in Idlib in Syria's northwest, a former rebel stronghold, residents say they're thrilled to celebrate this religious holiday in peace with their loved ones
0:42
In previous years, every time I pour drink, I look up at the sky wondering when they will strike
0:48
We were afraid. This year we are standing with our heads high. This is the first joyous Eid
0:55
We were finally able to reunite with my dad, after six years. And you can see the happiness on people's faces while they prepare to celebrate
1:03
without any fear of bombardment or air strikes. Despite new hope, the celebrations can't hide
1:11
the serious economic challenges people face, like high prices of basic commodities in a difficult job
1:17
market. The country swore in its new transitional government on Saturday, headed up by
1:22
interim president Ahmad al-Shara. The new authorities are struggling to repair battered infrastructure
1:28
after over a decade of conflict that decimated much of the country. And according to the United Nations, 90% of Syrians live in poverty