Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, or the 'Feast of the Sacrifice', is one of the two major Islamic festivals, observed by Muslims worldwide. It falls on the 10th day of Dhu'l-Hijja, the last month of the Islamic calendar, and lasts four days, marking Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.

• Ritual animal sacrifice symbolizes Abraham's devotion
• Eid prayers held in large congregations after sunrise
• Meat is shared with family, friends, and the poor
• Children receive gifts or money known as Eidi
• Festival lasts four days across the Muslim world

What it is

Eid al-Adha is a central festival in Islam, celebrated by Muslims across the world as a time of devotion, gratitude, and generosity. It commemorates the story of Abraham’s readiness to sacrifice his son at God’s command, a moment seen as the ultimate act of faith and submission. The festival also marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, connecting millions of Muslims in a shared sense of purpose and community. For many, Eid al-Adha is a time to gather with family, offer prayers, and extend kindness to neighbours and those in need.

Where it comes from

According to Islamic tradition, Abraham (Ibrahim) was commanded by God in a dream to sacrifice his son Ishmael (Isma'il). Abraham and his son both showed unwavering faith and willingness to submit to God's will. As Abraham prepared to carry out the sacrifice, God intervened and provided a ram to be offered instead. This story, referenced in the Quran and echoed in other Abrahamic faiths, is at the heart of Eid al-Adha. The ritual of animal sacrifice and the act of sharing its meat are rooted in this narrative, symbolizing obedience, gratitude, and charity.

How it is celebrated

Celebrations begin with special prayers held in large congregations, often in open fields or mosques. After the prayer and a sermon, those who can afford it perform the ritual sacrifice (udhiyah) of a halal animal—commonly a sheep, goat, or cow. The meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor, ensuring that everyone can share in the feast. People dress in their finest clothes, exchange greetings like 'Eid Mubarak', and give gifts or money (Eidi), especially to children. Meals feature traditional dishes, which vary by region, such as rich meat curries, sweets, and breads. In Bangladesh, for example, decorated cattle markets spring up, and special dishes like kala bhuna and pithas are prepared. In Pakistan, applying henna is popular among women, and in the Middle East, sweets are a highlight. The festival is also a time for visiting family and friends, and for acts of charity.

Joining in

Visitors can experience Eid al-Adha in many countries, with especially vibrant celebrations in places like Dhaka, Karachi, and Istanbul. Expect to see large gatherings for morning prayers, bustling animal markets, and streets filled with families in festive attire. While the ritual sacrifice is a private or communal act, the spirit of sharing extends to all, and guests are often welcomed to join in meals and festivities. Respectful attire and sensitivity to local customs are appreciated, and it is common for neighbours and friends to exchange greetings and food.

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article Eid al-Adha, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.

Read more

• Eid al-Adha on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

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