Celebrating Eid ul-Adha: Traditions around the World

Eid ul-Adha is finally upon us! Eid Mubarak to all celebrating today and tomorrow, may Allah (SWT) accept all your efforts and reward you in abundance. Ameen.

Today, we’re taking a look at how different Muslim communities around the world celebrate this sacred day.

In the birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia, the spirit of Eid ul-Adha is embraced on a huge scale. Millions of Muslims from all over the world gather in the holy city of Mecca to perform the Hajj pilgrimage; an extraordinary experience for those present. Pilgrims will engage in communal prayers at the Grand Mosque and festivities continue with the sacrificial slaughter of animals and the distribution of meat to those less fortunate. Worshippers here will enjoy days of festivities, food, and celebration.

In many African nations such as Morocco, Egypt and Tunisia, Eid ul-Adha celebrations begin with prayer and the sacrifice of an animal. The remainder of the celebration is spent having a feast of meat-filled meals with family and friends, gift giving and thinking of those less fortunate. It is a public holiday in some countries and sharing memories with loved ones is important. In Morocco, Eid ul-Adha is known as the ‘Greater Eid’ and holds high cultural significance. The atmosphere is filled with festivity and families decorate their homes before inviting their friends and neighbours in for a feast.

In the UK, Eid ul-Ahda is significant and important for all Muslims here. We will all partake in community prayers, family celebrations and a whole lot of delicious food, similar to our brothers and sisters around the world. We will embrace traditions and visit our elders on this special celebration. Acts of charity and community service are integral to the celebration of Eid ul-Adha here in the UK, with many of us engaging in community projects like donating to food banks or giving to charity.

In India, goats and sheep are selected and sacrificed in people’s homes or in designated Islamic centres. A feast will then be enjoyed with the meat from the sacrificed animal. Eid ul-Adha is a little different for our CEO this year as Ridwana is in India right now, witnessing Eid celebrations and your Qurbani first hand! She will be joining the local communities as they engage in the sacrifices and personally distributing meat to the poor and needy. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for her updates!

Eid ul-Adha is an occasion cherished by millions of Muslims worldwide in devotion to our faith. While the essence of the festival remains consistent, the customs and traditions surrounding it vary from region to region. Wherever you are in the world, we hope you enjoy this blessed celebration with family and friends, not forgetting to keep those less fortunate in your prayers.

Eid Mubarak from all of us here at Penny Appeal.