Eid-al-Adha: What to Know and How to Celebrate
Eid-al-Adha is one of the two major Muslim holidays. It marks the end of Hajj and remembers Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice for God. The day focuses on prayer, a ritual sacrifice called Qurbani, and sharing meat with family and people in need. If you’re preparing for Eid, here are clear, practical tips to help you celebrate respectfully and safely.
When is Eid-al-Adha and how is the date set?
The date moves each year because it follows the lunar calendar. Eid falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic year, right after the main rites of Hajj. Local moon sighting or calculations by religious authorities decide the exact day in each country. That means neighbours in different countries can sometimes celebrate on different days. Check your local mosque or trusted community group a few days before the expected date.
Practical guide to Qurbani (the sacrifice)
Qurbani is central to Eid-al-Adha. People who can afford it sacrifice an animal—usually a sheep, goat, cow or camel—following halal rules. The traditional division of the meat is simple: one part for your household, one part to give to relatives and neighbours, and one part for the poor. If you’re donating, use reputable charities or community groups so the meat reaches needy families quickly.
If you buy an animal, inspect it for health: clear eyes, no visible wounds, and steady movement. If you’re unfamiliar with slaughter rules, hire a trained person or use an approved abattoir. Keep hygiene in mind—handle meat with clean surfaces, refrigerate promptly, and cook or freeze within safe time frames.
Eid prayers (Salat al-Eid) usually happen in the morning at mosques or open grounds. Dress modestly, arrive early, and follow the local prayer routine. Many communities hold short talks after the prayer and organize shared meals, so plan to bring food or help with setup if you can.
Food and celebration tips: traditional dishes differ across Africa—spiced rice, stews, and grilled meats are common. If you’re hosting, prepare some dishes ahead and store safely. If you’re attending others’ homes, bring a small gift or some cooked food, and always greet with “Eid Mubarak.” Festivals can draw large crowds, so plan travel and parking early and expect busy markets.
Community and charity matter most. Eid-al-Adha is a time to support neighbours, contribute to local food drives, or sponsor a Qurbani through a trusted organisation. If you volunteer, check how the charity distributes meat and whether it follows local religious and health rules.
Finally, respect local laws and customs. In many African countries, Eid is a public holiday—banks and schools may close. In mixed communities, be mindful of noise and public behaviour. Celebrate with generosity, follow safety basics, and you’ll honor the spirit of Eid-al-Adha while keeping everyone safe and included.
De Montfort University Celebrates Eid-al-Adha with Joy and Generosity
De Montfort University extends warm Eid Mubarak wishes to all Muslim staff and students as they prepare to celebrate Eid-al-Adha. Set to commence on June 16, 2024, pending moon sighting, this joyous occasion emphasizes charity, feasting, and communal prayers. Imam Mohammed Laher invites everyone to participate in the celebrations and share their experiences on social media.