Eid al-Adha — the "Festival of Sacrifice" — is the second of the two major Islamic holidays, marking the climax of the Hajj pilgrimage. In 2026 it begins around 27 May (subject to the moon sighting). Here's what Eid al-Adha means and how it's observed.
For dates by country, see our Eid al-Adha 2026 dates & traditions guide, or the Eid al-Adha holiday page.
What is Eid al-Adha?
Eid al-Adha (Arabic: عيد الأضحى, "Festival of the Sacrifice") commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God — and God's mercy in providing a ram to sacrifice instead. It is a celebration of faith, obedience and gratitude.
It falls on the 10th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar, and lasts up to four days. Because the calendar is lunar, the date moves about 11 days earlier each Gregorian year.
The link to Hajj
Eid al-Adha coincides with the completion of the Hajj — the annual pilgrimage to Mecca that every able Muslim aims to make once in a lifetime. The day before Eid is the Day of Arafat (around 26 May 2026), the spiritual peak of Hajj, when pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafat in prayer. Many non-pilgrims fast on this day.
Qurbani: the sacrifice
A central practice of Eid al-Adha is Qurbani (or Udhiyah) — the sacrifice of a permitted animal (sheep, goat, cow or camel) by those who can afford it. The meat is traditionally divided into three parts:
- One-third for the family
- One-third for relatives and friends
- One-third for the poor and needy
This emphasis on sharing and charity is at the heart of the festival.
How Eid al-Adha is celebrated
- Eid prayer in the morning, in congregation.
- Qurbani and the distribution of meat.
- New clothes, family visits and festive meals — often featuring the Qurbani meat.
- Greetings of "Eid Mubarak."
Eid al-Adha vs Eid al-Fitr
| Eid al-Fitr | Eid al-Adha | |
|---|---|---|
| Marks | End of Ramadan | End of Hajj |
| Timing | 1 Shawwal | 10 Dhul-Hijjah (~2 months later) |
| Theme | Breaking the fast | Sacrifice & devotion |
See Eid al-Fitr explained for the first festival.
Quick answers
What is Eid al-Adha? The Islamic "Festival of Sacrifice," honouring Ibrahim's devotion and marking the end of the Hajj pilgrimage.
When is Eid al-Adha 2026? It begins around 27 May 2026, depending on the local moon sighting.
What is Qurbani? The ritual sacrifice of an animal, with the meat shared in thirds among family, friends and the poor.
What is the Day of Arafat? The day before Eid al-Adha — the spiritual peak of Hajj, when pilgrims gather at Arafat. Many non-pilgrims fast that day.