When is Eid Al-Adha 2025 and what is it?
Eid Al-Adha is one of the biggest celebrations in the Arabic Calendar, a time when everyone comes together at the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage period to give Qurbani (sacrifice).
Also known as the festival or “feast of sacrifice,” Eid Al-Adha honours how Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) to obey Allah's command.
In 2025, Eid Al-Aha is expected to begin on June 6th, or 10 Dhul Hijjah 1446. However, this date is subject to a slight deviation depending on the moon sighting.
If you want to learn more about this Muslim holiday, stick with us as we walk through how the ‘second Eid’ is celebrated, its significance, and how long this festival lasts. Join us in the celebration and upgrade your wardrobe with a beautiful new Eid outfit from AbayaButh!
What is Eid Al-Adha?
Eid al-Adha always falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
In 2025, it is expected to begin on Friday, 6th June, and conclude on Tuesday, 10th June. During this festival, Muslims across the world unite to remember the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim and reflect on their obedience to Allah, give charity, and perform a sacrifice of their own.
As Allah provided Ibrahim with a ram to sacrifice in place of his son, Muslim families perform Qurbani, in which a lamb, goat, sheep, bull, cow, or camel is sacrificed in a halal method (dhabiha). However, the rules govern that the animal must be in good health and over a certain age in order to be slaughtered.
If a person is eligible to pay zakat, they are also required to perform Qurbani. The animal is divided into three portions to share: one-third for family, one-third for relatives and friends, and the last third is given to the poor and needy.
During this time, Muslims show their devotion and trust in Allah’s will, while faith, sacrifice, and charity remain central to the celebration.
How Long Does Eid Al-Adha Last?
Traditionally, the celebration of Eid al-Adha lasts between three to four days, depending on the country.
In the UK, this holiday lasts for four days, with the festivities typically including the following:
- Day 1: Eid prayers and the commencement of the ritual sacrifice (Qurbani).
- Days 2–4: Continuation of the sacrifice, distribution of meat, and communal gatherings.
What is the Significance of Eid Al-Adha?
Eid Al-Adha serves as a reminder within Muslim culture of how everyone must resist the temptations of the devil and follow the teachings of Allah.
Just like the devil tempted Ibrahim by telling him to disobey Allah and spare his son from sacrifice, Muslims must resist urges and not stray away from the path of Allah. In doing so, you will be rewarded for your unwavering faith and devotion.
However, Eid Al-Adha is celebrated once Muslims who are fit and well have made the journey to Makkah in Saudi Arabia. So, for many, Eid Al-Adha marks the end of their pilgrimage, reflecting on their journey.
In essence, Eid-Al-Adha celebrates the unity, compassion, and devotion of Muslims across the world, bringing them closer to Allah and one another. It’s a time for reflection and committing yourself to your faith.
How is Eid Al-Adha Celebrated?
The day of this celebration begins with the Muslims gathering together at their local mosque or on open fields for a special congregational prayer. This prayer, known as the Eid prayer, is performed after sunrise and before the Zuhr prayer.
Many dress in their finest clothing and listen to a sermon (khutbah), coming together in their faith and devoting their time to Allah. Once the prayers have finished, Muslims who can afford to perform Qurbani (this meal is shared with family and friends, and the rest is distributed to the poor).
With a focus on charity and community, people are encouraged to donate food, money, or their time to organisations, help their neighbours, and ensure those less fortunate can participate in the celebrations.
People greet each other with happy greetings like “Eid Mubarak” and engage in acts like takbeer (saying "Allahu Akbar," meaning "God is Great") from the dawn of Eid until the prayer begins.
After the prayers and Qurbani, families share a traditional meal, often consisting of roast meats and rice dishes and sweets such as baklava, ma’amoul, and date pastries. Loved ones show their gratitude for the sacrifice and use this time to exchange blessings, strengthen bonds, and share in their joy.
Gift-giving is also an important aspect of Eid Al-Adha, mainly for the children. Gifts of money, clothes, or toys are given to children, and adults may exchange smaller gifts with one another to show their gratitude.
Eid Al-Adha in the UK
While Eid al-Adha is not a public holiday in the UK, Muslims often take annual leave to observe the festival and engage in communal prayers and events at mosques and community centres.
As of 2021, it was estimated that the Muslim population in the UK is 3.87 million, or 6.5 %. This number will have risen in 2025, with the largest Muslim communities in cities like London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Bradford.
With how large the Muslim community is in the UK, there are plenty of places to gather and many events created by the community for people to attend in the UK. It's estimated that around 25% to 50% of the Muslim population in the UK carry out Qurbani within the country, while others may choose to donate their Qurbani abroad.
Get Ready for Eid Al-Adha with AbayaButh
With Eid Al-Adha fast approaching, it’s time to start planning your outfits and refresh your wardrobe in time for the celebrations.
Luckily for you, we have a beautiful selection of luxurious abayas, hijabs, and co-ord sets to keep you comfortable and stylish throughout the celebration.
You can browse a range of stunning colours, intricate embellishments, and soft materials within our Eid collection. There’s something for every preference!
