Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant holidays in Islam. In 2026, it is expected to begin on the evening of Wednesday, July 29, and end on the evening of Thursday, July 30, depending on the sighting of the moon. The holiday honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God, before God provided a ram to sacrifice instead.
During Eid al-Adha, Muslims who can afford it perform Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The meat is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and neighbors, and one-third for the poor and needy. This practice emphasizes charity and community bonding, reinforcing social ties.
The day begins with a special prayer (Salat al-Eid) at the mosque, followed by greetings of 'Eid Mubarak.' Many Muslims also wear new clothes and visit family and friends. The holiday coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, where millions of pilgrims perform rituals.
