When is Eid al-Adha 2025? Dates, meaning and London celebrations for the Muslim festival

Eid al-Adha, also called the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of Islam’s most significant religious holidays — and will again be celebrated in London this summer. As the second and holiest of the two main Islamic festivals — following Eid al-Fitr — Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to Allah (God). However, before the sacrifice happened, Allah provided a ram as a substitute, symbolising divine mercy.

Here’s everything you need to know about Eid al-Adha 2025, including the London events confirmed so far…. Eid al-Adha (also written as Eid ul-Adha) takes place on the 10th day of the Islamic lunar month of Dhu al-Hijjah (also written as Dhul Hijjah), the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar. It follows the completion of Hajj.

Like Eid al-Fitr, the date of Eid al-Adha is determined by the sighting of the new moon. The date of the big Eid also varies annually, much like Eid al-Fitr. In 2025, Eid al-Adha will begin on the evening of Friday, June 6 and end on the evening of Tuesday, June 10.

The festival typically lasts four days, during which Muslims engage in various religious rituals and activities. A central practice is sacrificing an animal — usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel — following the tradition of Prophet Ibrahim. This act symbolises his devotion to God and is performed by those who can afford it, with the meat traditionally divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for those in need.

In addition to the sacrifice, Muslims also engage in prayer, particularly the congregational prayer held in mosques or prayer grounds. This is performed in the morning and is followed by a sermon delivered by an imam (the person who leads prayers in a mosque).

Eid al-Adha is a time for Muslims to reflect on the values of sacrifice, obedience, and gratitude. It is a period for families to come together, share meals, exchange gifts, and extend acts of kindness to others. Like Eid al-Fitr, it is a time of celebration, strengthening community bonds, and practising generosity by helping those in need.

Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha on the last day of Hajj — an annual pilgrimage to Mecca (Makkah) in Saudi Arabia and the Fifth Pillar of Islam. It is considered a religious obligation for able-bodied and financially capable Muslims to perform at least once in their lifetime. The Hajj pilgrimage takes place during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah and lasts five to six days.

Hajj traces its origins to the time of Prophet Ibrahim and his family. It is a pilgrimage that involves a series of specific rituals and acts of worship, commemorating the trials and sacrifices they endured in obedience to Allah. Hajj is a powerful symbol of unity, equality, and devotion, bringing together Muslims worldwide to undertake a shared spiritual journey.

During Hajj, pilgrims stand before the Kaaba, the sacred shrine built by Ibrahim, and offer their praises to Allah. They also perform various rituals, including the Stoning of the Devil. In this act, pilgrims throw pebbles at three pillars, known as Jamarat, symbolising the rejection of evil and temptation, following the example of Ibrahim's resistance to Satan.

Central London's grand Eid celebration returns to Trafalgar Square for its 20th year on Saturday, June 8. From midday to 6pm, the free, family-friendly event will feature live performances, music, parties and a vibrant atmosphere. Organised by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, this annual celebration is a collaborative effort between the Eid Community Advisory Group and various arts, culture, and grassroots Muslim organisations based in London.

Celebrate Eid al-Adha at Thames Barrier Park on Sunday, June 16, 2024, hosted by Masjid Silvertown. The event starts at 9am, with Takbeerat worship beginning at 9.30am. The prayer gathering will offer a chance to connect with the community in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Organisers said: “Enjoy a day filled with prayers, and community spirit. This in-person event is a great opportunity to connect with others and mark this special occasion together.”. Public transport is encouraged, with Pontoon Dock DLR station just a short walk away.