Your First Eid
There are two Eids in Islam. Both are occasions of gratitude, joy, family, and community.
The Two Eids
- Eid al-Fitr — "The festival of breaking the fast." Celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, immediately after Ramadan ends.
- Eid al-Adha — "The festival of sacrifice." Celebrated on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, coinciding with the Hajj pilgrimage. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) AS to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah, before Allah replaced the son with a ram.
What to Do on Eid Day
- Make ghusl (full ritual bath) in the morning
- Wear your best or new clothes
- For Eid al-Fitr: eat something sweet (traditionally dates) before the Eid prayer — this is Sunnah
- For Eid al-Adha: do not eat before the Eid prayer (Sunnah)
- Recite the Takbeer of Eid on the way to prayer:
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, la ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillahil hamd. - Attend the Eid prayer — held in the mosque or a large open ground, typically in the morning
- Greet people: "Eid Mubarak" (Blessed Eid) or "Taqabballallahu minna wa minkum" (May Allah accept from us and from you)
The Eid Prayer
The Eid prayer is two rak'at with extra takbeerat (saying Allahu Akbar). It is followed by two khutbahs (sermons). The majority of scholars consider it wajib (obligatory) or highly Sunnah — attend if possible.
Eid al-Adha and Qurbani (Sacrifice)
On Eid al-Adha, Muslims who are financially able slaughter a sheep, goat, cow, or camel (qurbani). The meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor. This can also be done through charitable organisations who carry out the sacrifice on your behalf in needy countries.
As a New Muslim
Contact your local mosque about Eid prayer times and location. You will be welcomed warmly. Eid can feel lonely for a new Muslim without family celebrating alongside you — reach out to your Muslim community in advance. Most mosques have Eid gatherings and meals. You belong there.