Celebrations around the world: Eid al-Adha (Islam), 9-13 July

What: Eid al-Adha is the second of the two Eids and is known as Greater Eid, or Big Eid. Greater Eid takes place at the completion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

Why: Eid al-Adha translates as Feast of the Sacrifice, because it celebrates the Prophet Ibrahim. According to scripture, Ibrahim was willing to sacrifice his beloved son to God, showing his unfailing devotion. At the last moment, God replaced the child with a ram; during Eid, animals are sacrificed in honour of this story.

How: Muslims celebrate Eid by getting together with loved ones, dressing up in new clothes and giving gifts.

People also congregate in mosques for Eid Salaah (prayers) in the morning of the first day of Eid. Traditionally, Qurbani/Udhiya, or sacrifice, takes place afterwards. The animal must be over a certain age and slaughtered according to halal practices. The qurbani meat is then divided up: one third for you and your family; one third for friends, and the final third to those in need. Nowadays, many Islamic charities are set up so that Muslims can donate qurbani more easily to those in need around the world.

We always love to hear from customers about their own celebrations. Please get in touch if you have observed any of July’s festivals and would like to share stories or photos with us!