When is Eid 2025 | Islamic Festivals

Eid 2025 is a time of significant anticipation and joy for Muslims around the globe, marking periods of deep spiritual reflection, communal celebration, and heartfelt gratitude.

In Islam, there are two major Eid festivals: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. While both are joyous occasions, they commemorate different spiritual milestones.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the expected dates for both Eids in 2025, with a particular focus on Eid Adha, also widely known as Eid Kabir or Eid el Kabir, and explore its profound significance, including what an Eid public holiday entails.

Understanding the Islamic calendar is key to knowing when these festivals will occur. The Islamic calendar, or Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar.

This means its months are based on the cycles of the moon. As a result, Islamic dates shift approximately 10 to 11 days earlier each year in relation to the Gregorian calendar.

Therefore, the exact dates of Eid are confirmed by the sighting of the new crescent moon.

Eid al-Fitr 2025: Marking the End of Ramadan

Eid al-Fitr, often referred to as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” signals the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims.

It is a joyous celebration that typically lasts for one to three days.

Expected Date for Eid al-Fitr 2025: Eid al-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. For 2025, Eid al-Fitr is anticipated to be celebrated on or around Monday, March 31, 2025, or Tuesday, April 1, 2025, depending on the official sighting of the new moon.

Significance of Eid al-Fitr: This Eid is a time of immense gratitude to Allah for the strength and guidance received during Ramadan. Key aspects include:

Celebration of Achievement: It marks the successful completion of a month of fasting, intense worship, and self-discipline.
Gratitude: Muslims thank Allah for His blessings and the opportunity to grow spiritually during Ramadan.
Charity (Zakat al-Fitr): Before the Eid prayers, Muslims are obligated to give Zakat al-Fitr, a specific form of charity, to ensure that the less fortunate can also partake in the Eid festivities.
Community and Prayer: The day begins with a special congregational prayer (Salat al-Eid) performed in mosques or large open areas. This is followed by celebrations, visiting family and friends, exchanging gifts (often called ‘Eidi’ for children), and sharing festive meals.

Eid al-Fitr is a vibrant and joyous occasion, emphasizing community, compassion, and thanksgiving.

Eid al-Adha 2025: The Festival of Sacrifice (Eid Kabir)

The second major Islamic festival is Eid ul Adha, often referred to as Eid Adha. It is also widely known by names such as Eid Kabir (the “Greater Eid”) or Eid el Kabir.

This festival holds profound spiritual importance and is celebrated by Muslims worldwide.

Expected Date for Eid al-Adha (Eid Kabir) 2025: When is Eid Kabir in 2025? Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. This period also marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. For 2025, Eid ul Adha (Eid Kabir) is anticipated to begin on or around Friday, June 6, 2025, subject to the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah moon. The celebration of Eid al-Adha typically extends for three to four days.

Significance of Eid al-Adha (Eid Kabir): Eid al-Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to Allah’s command. Before Ibrahim could carry out the sacrifice, Allah provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. This event is a testament to unwavering faith and complete submission to God.

Key aspects of Eid al-Adha include:

Commemoration of Sacrifice: The central theme is the spirit of sacrifice in devotion to Allah.
Qurbani (The Sacrifice): Muslims who are financially able perform the Qurbani, which involves sacrificing an animal (such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel). The meat from the sacrifice is typically divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy. This² act emphasizes sharing and caring for the less fortunate.
Connection to Hajj: Eid al-Adha coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage, where pilgrims in Mecca also perform a sacrifice as part of their rituals. This highlights the unity of the Muslim Ummah (community) across the globe.
Prayer and Celebration: Like Eid al-Fitr, the day begins with a special Eid prayer. This is followed by performing the Qurbani, visiting loved ones, sharing meals, and engaging in charitable acts.
The “Greater Eid”: It is called Eid Kabir due to its greater universal significance, the major act of Qurbani, and its connection to the Hajj, which is one of the five pillars of Islam.

Understanding Qurbani (The Sacrifice) in Eid al-Adha

The act of Qurbani is central to Eid ul Adha.

Here’s a deeper look:

Who Should Perform Qurbani? Generally, Qurbani is obligatory for adult Muslims of sound mind who possess wealth exceeding a certain threshold (Nisab) beyond their basic needs.
Timing of Qurbani: The sacrifice can be performed after the Eid al-Adha prayer on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah and continues until sunset on the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah, depending on the school of thought.
Permissible Animals: Specific types of livestock animals are permissible for Qurbani, such as sheep, goats, cattle (cows, bulls), and camels. These animals must also meet certain age and health criteria to be eligible for sacrifice.
- A sheep or goat counts as a sacrifice for one person.
- A cow, bull, or camel can be shared by up to seven people.
The Spirit of Qurbani: The Quran emphasizes that it is not the meat or blood of the sacrificed animal that reaches Allah, but rather the piety and devotion of the one performing the sacrifice. “Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you.” (Quran 22:37). The act teaches obedience, gratitude, and the importance of sharing God’s provisions with others.
Distribution of Meat: The tradition of dividing the meat into three shares ensures that the sacrifice benefits the individual’s family, extends to their social circle, and most importantly, reaches those in need, fostering a sense of community and compassion. Many Muslims also donate their Qurbani through charitable organizations that distribute the meat to impoverished communities worldwide.

Eid Public Holiday Considerations

Both Eid al-Fitr and Eid Adha (Eid Kabir) are significant occasions that often result in an Eid public holiday in Muslim-majority countries.

In many other countries with substantial Muslim populations, governments may also grant public holidays or allow for special observances.

Duration: An Eid public holiday for Eid al-Fitr might last for one to three days. For Eid ul Adha, it can often be longer, sometimes three to four days, to accommodate the period of sacrifice and celebration.
Official Announcements: The exact dates for an Eid public holiday are typically announced by national governments or religious authorities closer to the time, based on the confirmed sighting of the moon. These announcements are eagerly awaited as they allow families and communities to plan their celebrations.
Impact: These holidays enable Muslims to fulfill their religious duties, participate in communal prayers and festivities, strengthen family bonds, and take a break from work and school. They also provide an opportunity for people of other faiths to learn about and sometimes partake in the cultural aspects of Eid celebrations, fostering interfaith understanding.

Global Eid Celebrations: A Tapestry of Traditions

While the core religious observances of Eid are similar worldwide, cultural traditions and expressions of joy vary beautifully across different regions.

Morning Prayers: Muslims gather in large numbers for Eid prayers, dressed in their best, often new, clothes.
Festive Attire: Wearing new or finest clothes is a common practice, symbolizing spiritual renewal and joy.
Special Cuisines: Each culture boasts its unique array of delicious dishes and sweets prepared specially for Eid. Sharing food is a central part of the festivities.
Visiting Loved Ones: Eid is a time for strengthening family ties. Visits to parents, grandparents, relatives, and friends are customary.
Gift-Giving (Eidi): Children, in particular, look forward to receiving ‘Eidi’ – gifts of money or presents from elders.
Charity: Acts of charity are emphasized during both Eids, ensuring that everyone can participate in the happiness.
Decorations: Homes and public spaces are often decorated with lights, banners, and traditional motifs.
Community Events: Fairs, bazaars, and community gatherings are often organized, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The slight variations in the exact day of Eid due to moon sighting practices in different parts of the world are a normal aspect of the lunar calendar.

These differences do not detract from the universal spirit of unity and devotion that characterizes Eid.

Preparing for Eid 2025: Spiritually and Practically

As Eid 2025 approaches, Muslims begin preparations on various levels:

Spiritual Preparation:
- For Eid al-Fitr, the preceding month of Ramadan is a period of intense spiritual preparation through fasting, prayer, Quran recitation, and increased charity.
- For Eid ul Adha, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are considered highly blessed. Muslims are encouraged to engage in increased worship, fasting (especially on the Day of Arafah, the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, for non-pilgrims), and remembrance of Allah during these days.
Practical Preparations:
- Qurbani Arrangements: For those intending to perform Qurbani for Eid Kabir, arrangements for the sacrificial animal are made in advance.
- New Clothes and Gifts: Shopping for new clothes and gifts is a common activity.
- Home Preparations: Cleaning and decorating homes.
- Food Preparations: Planning and preparing special meals and sweets.
- Travel Plans: Many people travel to be with their families, so travel arrangements might be made if an eid public holiday allows.

Eid is more than just a holiday; it is a profound expression of faith, gratitude, and community.

It is a time to reflect on one’s relationship with Allah, to practice compassion and generosity, and to rejoice in the shared bonds of a global Muslim family.

The anticipation for Eid 2025—whether it’s the celebration of breaking the fast after Ramadan or the commemoration of sacrifice during Eid ul Adha—is already building.

These festivals provide invaluable opportunities for spiritual growth, communal bonding, and spreading joy.

FAQs About Eid 2025

1. What date is Eid Mubarak 2025?
Eid Mubarak refers to the greetings for both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. For 2025:

Eid al-Fitr: In Saudi Arabia, the crescent moon for Shawwal 1446 AH was sighted on March 29, 2025, making Eid al-Fitr on Sunday, March 30, 2025. In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto announced the same date, March 30, 2025, following the moon sighting.
Eid al-Adha: In Saudi Arabia, the Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH crescent moon was sighted on May 27, 2025, so Eid al-Adha is on Friday, June 6, 2025. In Nigeria, the moon was sighted on May 28, 2025, making Eid al-Adha on Saturday, June 7, 2025.

2. Has the Sultan announced Eid 2025 in Nigeria? Yes, for Eid al-Fitr 2025, Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III announced that the Shawwal 1446 AH crescent moon was sighted on March 29, 2025, declaring March 30, 2025, as Eid al-Fitr. For Eid al-Adha 2025, the moon was not sighted in Nigeria on May 27, 2025, so the Central Ruślinąe-Hilal Committee declared June 7, 2025, as Eid al-Adha, with Dhul Hijjah starting on May 29, 2025.

3. Which day is Eid Kabir 2025 in Nigeria? Eid Kabir, also known as Eid al-Adha or Bakra Eid, will be celebrated in Nigeria on Saturday, June 7, 2025, based on the moon sighting on May 28, 2025, marking the start of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH on May 29, 2025.

4. Has the moon been sighted for Eid 2025?

Eid al-Fitr 2025: The Shawwal 1446 AH crescent moon was sighted in Saudi Arabia and Nigeria on March 29, 2025, confirming Eid al-Fitr on March 30, 2025.
Eid al-Adha 2025: The Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH crescent moon was sighted in Saudi Arabia on May 27, 2025, starting Dhul Hijjah on May 28, 2025, and Eid al-Adha on June 6, 2025. In Nigeria, the moon was sighted on May 28, 2025, starting Dhul Hijjah on May 29, 2025, and Eid al-Adha on June 7, 2025.

5. Has Saudi Arabia confirmed Eid 2025? Yes, Saudi Arabia has confirmed:

Eid al-Fitr 2025: The Shawwal 1446 AH crescent moon was sighted on March 29, 2025, so Eid al-Fitr is on March 30, 2025.
Eid al-Adha 2025: The Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH crescent moon was sighted on May 27, 2025, confirming Eid al-Adha on June 6, 2025, with Hajj starting June 4, 2025, and the Day of Arafah on June 5, 2025.

6. How many times a year do we have Eid?
Muslims celebrate two major Eids annually:

Eid al-Fitr: Marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting, typically on the 1st of Shawwal. In 2025, this is March 30 in Saudi Arabia and Nigeria.
Eid al-Adha: Occurs on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, following the Hajj pilgrimage, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice for Allah. In 2025, it’s June 6 in Saudi Arabia and June 7 in Nigeria.
Thus, there are two Eids per year.

7. Is the Zil Hajj (Dhul Hijjah) moon sighted in Saudi Arabia in 2025? Yes, the Dhul Hijjah (also referred to as Zil Hajj) 1446 AH crescent moon was sighted in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, marking the start of Dhul Hijjah on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. This was confirmed by the Saudi Supreme Court and observatories like Tamir.

8. Is the moon seen today in Saudi Arabia in 2025? As of today, May 31, 2025, there are no significant moon sightings scheduled for Islamic calendar events in Saudi Arabia, as the key sightings for Eid al-Fitr (March 29, 2025) and Eid al-Adha (May 27, 2025) have already occurred. The next relevant moon sighting would be for the month of Muharram 1447 AH, expected around late June or early July 2025, to mark the Islamic New Year. Specific dates depend on future announcements.

9. Which day is 9 Zil Hajj (Dhul Hijjah) 2025? The 9th of Dhul Hijjah, known as the Day of Arafah, is a pivotal day during the Hajj pilgrimage.

In Saudi Arabia, Dhul Hijjah began on May 28, 2025, so the 9th of Dhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah) is Thursday, June 5, 2025.
In Nigeria, Dhul Hijjah began on May 29, 2025, so the 9th of Dhul Hijjah is Friday, June 6, 2025.

10. How many people will perform Hajj in 2030? Precise numbers for Hajj pilgrims in 2030 are not yet available, as they depend on Saudi Arabia’s annual quotas, visa allocations, and global participation trends. However, in 2025, approximately 2 million Muslims are expected to perform Hajj, according to the Saudi Hajj and Umrah Ministry. This number is consistent with recent years, though it may increase or decrease by 2030 based on infrastructure developments, global demand, and Saudi policies. For example, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 aims to expand capacity, potentially allowing more pilgrims, but no specific 2030 projections are confirmed in available data.

11. What is the significance of Eid al-Adha? Eid al-Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismael in obedience to Allah, who provided a ram instead. Celebrated on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, it involves the Qurbani (animal sacrifice), with meat distributed to family, friends, and the needy, emphasizing charity and community. It follows the Hajj pilgrimage, one of Islam’s five pillars.

12. Why do Eid dates differ between countries like Nigeria and Saudi Arabia? Eid dates vary due to the Islamic lunar calendar and regional moon-sighting practices. Saudi Arabia often sights the crescent moon a day earlier due to its geographical position and clear skies, as seen with the Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH moon sighted on May 27, 2025. Nigeria, following local sightings, sighted the moon on May 28, 2025, leading to a one-day difference for Eid al-Adha (June 6 vs. June 7). Some countries rely on Saudi announcements, while others, like Nigeria, prioritize local sightings.

13. What are the key rituals of Eid al-Adha?
Key rituals include:

Eid Prayer: A special congregational prayer on the morning of Eid.
Qurbani: Sacrificing livestock (e.g., sheep, goat, cow) to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice, with meat divided into three parts: for family, friends, and the poor.
Charity: Sharing with the less fortunate to promote compassion.
Visiting Family and Friends: Strengthening community bonds through gatherings and festive meals.

14. How is the start of Dhul Hijjah determined? The start of Dhul Hijjah is determined by sighting the crescent moon on the 29th of the preceding month (Dhul Qadah). If sighted, Dhul Hijjah begins the next day; if not, Dhul Qadah completes 30 days, and Dhul Hijjah starts the day after. In 2025, Saudi Arabia sighted the moon on May 27, starting Dhul Hijjah on May 28, while Nigeria sighted it on May 28, starting on May 29.

15. What is the Day of Arafah, and why is it important? The Day of Arafah, on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, is the holiest day in Islam. Pilgrims gather at the plains of Arafat near Mecca for prayers and supplications, seeking forgiveness and blessings. Non-pilgrims fast, engage in worship, and give charity. It’s a day of immense spiritual significance, believed to be when Allah forgives sins most generously. In 2025, it’s June 5 in Saudi Arabia and June 6 in Nigeria.

As you look forward to Eid 2025, how will you embrace its spirit? Consider learning more about the profound meanings behind these sacred festivals, planning your acts of worship and charity, and preparing to share the joy with your family, friends, and community. May the upcoming Eids bring peace, blessings, and happiness to all.