Eid al-Adha 2027: The Festival of Sacrifice
Festival guide · 2027
Eid al-Adha (عيد الأضحى) — the Festival of Sacrifice — is one of the two major Islamic holidays. It falls on 10 Dhul Hijjah and marks Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God, and God's mercy in providing a ram in his place.
Eid al-Adha coincides with the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca. Even Muslims not performing Hajj observe the day through prayer, the sacrifice of an animal (Qurbani), and celebration with family.
2027 Dates
| Date | Tuesday, May 18, 2027 |
Dates are calculated automatically and may vary by ±1 day. Always confirm with your local religious authority.
Traditions & Observance
Arafah Day
The Day of Arafah (9 Dhul Hijjah) falls the day before Eid. Hajj pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafah for the central rite of pilgrimage. For non-pilgrims, fasting on this day is among the most recommended acts in the Islamic year — the Prophet ﷺ said it expiates sins of the previous and coming year.
Eid Prayer
The day begins with a special congregational Salat al-Eid in an open ground or mosque — two rak'ah with additional takbirat, followed by a khutbah. Men, women, and children all attend. From Arafah Day through the last Tashreeq day, Muslims recite the Takbir al-Tashreeq after each obligatory prayer.
Qurbani (Animal Sacrifice)
Muslims who are able sacrifice a sheep, goat, cow, or camel — known as Qurbani. The meat is divided into thirds: for the family, for relatives and friends, and for those in need. Many donate to charity organisations that carry out the sacrifice on their behalf in countries where meat is most needed.
Eid Greetings
The traditional greeting is Eid Mubarak (عيد مبارك — Blessed Eid) or Eid Sa'id (Happy Eid). The reply is Wa antum mubarak. The celebration continues through the Tashreeq days (11–13 Dhul Hijjah) with visits to family, gifts for children, and communal feasting.
Other Years
The exact Eid date depends on the crescent moon sighting and varies by country. Always confirm with your local mosque or national Islamic authority.