This Friday, Muslims across the country will gather to mark Eid al-Adha, one of the most important events on the Islamic calendar — and yes, that means you can expect to see plenty of barbecues this weekend.
When is Eid al-Adha in 2025?
The Day of Arafah will take place on Thursday, June 5, which places Eid al-Adha on the following day, Friday, June 6, as announced by the Grand Mufti of Australia, Ibrahim Abu Mohamad.
The holiday is observed annually on the 10th day of Thul-Hijjah (also spelled Dhu’l-Hijjah), the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
Why does the date change each year?
Last year, Eid al-Adha fell on Sunday, June 16. The changing date is due to differences between the Islamic lunar calendar and the solar-based Gregorian calendar. The Islamic calendar typically lags behind the Gregorian calendar by about 10 to 12 days.
What is Eid al-Adha?
Known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Eid al-Adha is a major religious celebration for Muslims. According to the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC), the festival honors the deep faith of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was ready to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.
It is a time of spiritual reflection, prayer, and community connection, during which Muslims contemplate giving up personal desires and harmful behaviors.
How do people celebrate Eid al-Adha?
Celebrations vary, but in Australia, backyard barbecues are a common way to mark the occasion, reflecting the tradition of animal sacrifice. The Arabic term Udhiya refers to this ritual act of slaughtering livestock — such as goats, sheep, cows, or camels — as a sign of devotion to God.
Traditionally, the meat is divided into three parts: one for family, one for friends, and one for those in need.
Though animal slaughter is regulated in Australia and allowed only through licensed abattoirs, many Muslims donate to charities that carry out sacrifices overseas. This ensures the meat reaches those in need, keeping the spirit of giving alive.
In some regions, local Islamic communities organize public Eid festivals featuring food vendors, rides, and entertainment.
Additional Eid Traditions
Many people dress in their best clothes, exchange gifts, enjoy sweets, and begin the day with special prayers known as Salat al-Eid, held in mosques or community spaces like parks or sports halls.
Who Celebrates Eid al-Adha?
While primarily a Muslim religious holiday, Eid al-Adha also holds cultural significance. Some non-practicing Muslims and even non-Muslims participate in the celebrations. The way the day is observed often reflects a blend of cultural heritage and religious tradition.
Depending on cultural background, people may prepare different traditional sweets in the days leading up to Eid — such as ma’amoul (date cookies) in the Middle East, gulab jamun in South Asia, or baklava in the Mediterranean.
Didn’t We Have an Eid Earlier This Year?
Yes, but that was Eid al-Fitr, which was celebrated in March. In Arabic, “Eid” simply means “festival.” There are two major Islamic holidays with “Eid” in their names:
- Eid al-Fitr
- Eid al-Adha
Although they share similar customs — including prayers, festive meals, and time with loved ones — they differ in purpose. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, while Eid al-Adha commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s act of sacrifice.
