By: Ajmal Abdirahman

Muslims have two major holidays, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The two holidays are determined by the Islamic calendar, which is a lunar calendar, meaning it depends on the cycles of the moon phases. There are 12 months in the calendar. A new month begins when a new moon is sighted.

Muslims are currently observing Ramadan, and Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated at the end. Eid al-Fitr commemorates the end of Ramadan. It’s a time for Muslims to gather with friends and family. Also, to show gratitude toward God following the previous month of reflection. It is a time when Muslims are reminded to be grateful for what they have, and to share what they have with others who are less fortunate. 

The day will start off with families attending an Eid prayer, early in the morning. Families will dress in beautiful cultural attire.

After prayers, families will go visit their friends and family. A lot of Muslims also exchange gifts. Eid al-Fitr is celebrated either for 1 or 3 days!

Eid al-Adha marks the end of hajj. Hajj is the pilgrimage to Mecca. Very similar to Eid al-Fitr there will be a prayer, with many people, visiting loved ones and gift exchanges!

Different from Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha can take place anytime of year, so not right after Ramadan. It comes typically around two months after Eid al-Fitr. During Eid al-Adha those that can afford to sacrifice an animal do so, they either sacrifice a sheep, goat, camel, or cow, and divide it among friends, family, and the poor. It’s less common here in America for many Muslims to sacrifice animals.

My experience with celebrating Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha has always been amazing. It’s the time I look forward to most every year. It’s a time of fun and happiness for me. I love seeing family and friends I haven’t seen in a long time. Me and my family will typically go out to eat after the Eid prayer and then spend the rest of the day going to different Eid parties or doing fun activities at home! I love Eid!

For more information please visit:

• “Eid Al-Fitr” https://www.brandeis.edu/spiritual-life/resources/guide-to-observances/eid-al-fitr.html.
• “Eid Al-Adha | Islamic Festival” https://www.britannica.com/topic/Eid-al-Adha.
• https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwjhlLaEvIH-AhX9jIkEHai9C8UQFnoECBIQAw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcrsreports.congress.gov%2Fproduct%2Fpdf%2FR%2FR45003&usg=AOvVaw223OGqryHc2LKn1vzMW8SN.
• https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwjNx92stob-AhXZkIkEHcL7DSgQFnoECEwQAw&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheculturetrip.com%2Fmiddle-east%2Farticles%2Fso-what-exactly-is-eid-al-fitr%2F&usg=AOvVaw1PVQe9AWwyqslJNXp9N9JP.

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