Eid ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. This festival, marked by prayers, feasts, and the act of Qurbani (sacrifice), is a time for Muslims worldwide to come together in celebration and reflection.
Eid ul-Adha 2026 promises to be a momentous occasion filled with tradition, community, and spiritual significance. Here, Wego delves into the dates and guide for celebrating Eid ul-Adha 2026.
Table of Contents
Eid ul-Adha 2026 dates
Eid ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is a major holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It marks the culmination of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, and is a time for Muslims to reflect on faith, sacrifice, and compassion.
Eid ul-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The exact date varies each year, as it is determined by the sighting of the moon. In 2026, Eid al-Adha is estimated to begin on the evening of Tuesday, 26 May, and last through Wednesday, 27 May. This may vary by a day depending on the actual sighting of the moon later on.
Eid ul-Adha traditions and practices
Key customs during Eid ul-Adha include performing the Eid prayer, sacrificing an animal, sharing the meat with family and the less fortunate, and engaging in acts of charity. These practices foster unity, gratitude, and a deeper connection to religious teachings, enriching the spiritual significance of the occasion for Muslims worldwide.
Hajj
The final days of Hajj and Eid ul-Adha are a time of immense joy and spiritual fulfillment. Pilgrims in Mecca celebrate the successful completion of their pilgrimage, while Muslims worldwide come together in prayer, feasting, and charitable giving. This shared experience strengthens the global Muslim community and reinforces the universal message of Eid ul-Adha: sacrifice, devotion, and the importance of sharing blessings with others.
Even though Hajj is a separate obligation, its occurrence within the timeframe of Eid ul-Adha creates a powerful link between the two. The spirit of sacrifice and devotion displayed by pilgrims during Hajj inspires and amplifies the themes of Eid ul-Adha for all Muslims. Make sure to visit our dedicated page on the Hajj guide for more information and details.
Qurban (Sacrifice)
A central practice of Eid ul-Adha is Qurban, the ritual sacrifice of an animal, typically a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The meat is then divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy. This practice embodies the spirit of sharing and helping those less fortunate.
Prayers and celebrations
Eid al-Adha begins with special prayers held in mosques or open spaces. Following prayers, Muslims gather with family and friends to celebrate. Homes are decorated, delicious meals are prepared, gifts are exchanged, and loved ones are visited. The atmosphere is filled with joy, gratitude, and a spirit of togetherness.
Eid ul-Adha is a global celebration with unique traditions in different countries. From wearing new clothes in Morocco to attending lively carnivals in Indonesia, the spirit of Eid transcends borders and cultures. For a closer look at specific celebrations, explore our articles on Eid ul-Adha traditions around the world.
Eid ul-Adha preparation
With Eid al-Adha 2026 still a distant event, Muslims have the opportunity to begin preparing for the holiday by reflecting inwardly, organizing charitable contributions, and making practical arrangements to fully embrace its spirit.
Shopping and decorations
Preparation for Eid ul-Adha begins weeks in advance with shopping for new clothes, decorations, and gifts. Markets and malls are bustling with activity as people buy traditional attire, jewelry, and festive home décor. Many families also purchase animals for the Qurbani, ensuring they meet the religious criteria for sacrifice.
Food and festive meals
Food is an integral part of Eid ul-Adha celebrations. Special meals are prepared, featuring a variety of traditional dishes and sweets. In many cultures, the meat from the Qurbani is used to cook elaborate feasts shared with family, friends, and the needy. Recipes for dishes such as biryani, kebabs, and sweet treats like baklava and halwa are passed down through generations, adding to the festive spirit.
Travel during Eid ul-Adha
Due to the festive nature of Eid al-Adha, many Muslims travel to visit family and loved ones. To ensure a smooth and stress-free journey, consider these helpful tips for traveling during Eid ul-Adha.
Popular destinations
While Eid ul-Adha celebrations occur worldwide, some destinations offer unique cultural experiences and vibrant festivities. Here are a few popular spots to consider for your Eid ul-Adha 2026 travels:
-
Mecca and Medina, Saudi Arabia: The holiest cities in Islam, Mecca and Medina become even more captivating during Eid al-Adha. Witness the culmination of Hajj, where pilgrims celebrate their successful journey. In Medina, soak in the spiritual atmosphere of the Prophet’s Mosque and explore the city’s rich Islamic heritage
-
Istanbul, Turkey: Eid al-Adha, known as Kurban Bayramı in Turkey, is a vibrant occasion. Explore the bustling Grand Bazaar, adorned with festive decorations, and savor traditional Turkish delicacies like baklava during celebratory meals. Witness the unique sight of families picnicking in parks and historical sites during the extended Eid holiday
-
Indonesia: Eid al-Adha in Indonesia is a joyous affair marked by lively takbiran (chanting) processions on the eve of Eid. Immerse yourself in the colorful carnivals of West Java, or experience the serene beauty of mosques nestled amidst rice paddies in Bali. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in rendang, a slow-cooked meat dish that features prominently in Eid feasts
-
Morocco: Eid al-Adha in Morocco is a time for family reunions and traditional customs. Witness families dressed in their finest attire, visiting relatives, and exchanging gifts. Explore the bustling souks (markets) overflowing with Eid delicacies like chebakia (honey-drenched pastries) and vibrant kaftans
-
The United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE offers a luxurious backdrop for Eid al-Adha celebrations. Witness dazzling fireworks displays illuminating the skylines of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Enjoy lavish Eid buffets at world-class hotels, or experience traditional camel rides and desert safaris for a truly unique Eid experience
Travel tips
Traveling during Eid ul-Adha requires careful planning. It is advisable to book flights and accommodations well in advance due to high demand. Travelers should also be aware of local customs and public holiday schedules, as many businesses and services may operate on limited hours. Respect for local traditions and participating in community events can enhance the travel experience.
As we prepare for this significant festival, let us embrace its spirit, honoring traditions while adapting to the modern world. May Eid ul-Adha 2026 bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to all.
