Eid al-Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice”, falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, and lasts about 3–4 days. It honours Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God, and it coincides with the end of the Hajj pilgrimage. In 2027 it is expected around 16 May.
What is the story behind Eid al-Adha?
In Islamic tradition, Ibrahim dreamed that God commanded him to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael). Both accepted the command; Satan tried to dissuade them, and Ibrahim drove him away with stones. At the moment of sacrifice, God provided a ram instead. Muslims remember this act of faith and obedience each year.
How is Eid al-Adha linked to the Hajj?
Eid al-Adha begins on the day after pilgrims stand at Mount Arafat, the high point of the Hajj. Pilgrims then perform the symbolic stoning at the Jamarat in Mina and the circling of the Kaaba (tawaf) in Mecca. Around 1.8 million pilgrims performed the Hajj in recent years. The Hajj is obligatory once in a lifetime for Muslims who are physically and financially able.
How is Eid al-Adha celebrated?
- Eid prayer: a special congregational prayer on the first morning.
- Qurbani (sacrifice): families who can afford it sacrifice a sheep, goat, cow or camel; the meat is traditionally divided into three parts – for the family, for relatives and friends, and for people in need.
- Greetings: “Eid Mubarak” (blessed Eid).
- Family and food: visits, festive meals, new clothes and gifts for children.
- Charity: giving to the poor is central to the festival.
When is Eid al-Adha?
| Year | Expected date (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2027 | around 16 May |
| 2028 | around 5 May |
Dates move about 11 days earlier each year and are confirmed by moon sighting.
Drinks for Eid gatherings
Non-alcoholic drinks are a big part of Eid meals: tropical fruit juices, coconut water, sparkling fruit drinks and iced tea. ACM produces HALAL-certified juices and drinks for Middle East and Asian markets; see fruit juices, coconut water and sparkling drinks. Related: Ramadan explained.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha?
Eid al-Fitr ends Ramadan; Eid al-Adha, about two months later, marks the Hajj and the sacrifice of Ibrahim.
How long does Eid al-Adha last?
Usually 3–4 days, depending on the country.
What do you say on Eid al-Adha?
“Eid Mubarak” or “Eid al-Adha Mubarak”.
Why is the meat divided into three parts?
To share with family, with relatives and friends, and with people in need, reflecting the festival’s spirit of charity.
