Tirmidhi

Hadith Commentary: It is understood that on Eid al-Fitr, it is Sunnah to eat a few dates, if available, before going out for the prayer.

Hadith Commentary:
(1)
The hadith scholars have explained the wisdom behind eating something before the Eid al-Fitr prayer as follows: Just as, by Allah’s command, eating and drinking were suspended throughout the month of Ramadan, now, when He has granted permission to eat during the day and His pleasure and approval are known to be in this, one should, like a needy servant, make arrangements to enjoy His blessings as soon as morning arrives. Furthermore, the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) would choose dates for this purpose, as dates have a deep connection with faith, as mentioned in the Noble Qur’an in this context ().
It is narrated in the hadith that the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) would consume three, five, or seven, or an odd number more or less than this, of dates before the Eid al-Fitr prayer.

(2)
The use of an odd number is an indication towards the Oneness (Tawhid) of Allah, the Exalted.

(3)
If dates are not available, then drinking a sweet beverage is also correct.
(Fath al-Bari: 2/577–578)
If it is not available at home, then one may eat or drink on the way or upon reaching the Eid ground.
In any case, abandoning this practice is considered undesirable.

Benefit:
It is Sunnah to eat something before departing for Eid al-Fitr so that there is a distinction from the days of fasting.

Takhrij:
«أخرجه البخاري، العيدين، باب الأكل يوم الفطرقبل الخروج، حديث:953، وأحمد:3 /126، 232، وابن ماجه، الصيام، حديث:1754، وابن خزيمة، حديث:1429.»©Explanation:
Several rulings are established from this hadith:
➊ Going outside for the Eid prayer is Sunnah.
➋ It is Sunnah to eat dates in an odd number before going for the Eid al-Fitr prayer.
➌ Dates should be eaten one by one.
One should not stuff many dates into the mouth at once.
This is contrary to etiquette and good manners.
If someone does not have access to dates, then anything else may be eaten.
And Allah knows best.
➍ The wisdom apparent in eating dates one by one is that a person should not become greedy or covetous; furthermore, it also alludes to the oneness of Allah Ta‘ala, as Allah Ta‘ala is One (Witr) and loves what is odd (witr).
From a medical perspective as well, each date should be chewed thoroughly and mixed well with saliva before swallowing, so that it may aid and assist the digestive system.