Islamic Holidays

Major Islamic Holidays

1. Ramadan (رمضان)

• A holy month of fasting from dawn to sunset.

• Muslims focus on prayer, reflection, charity, and self-discipline.

• Considered the most blessed month in Islam.

2. Eid al-Fitr (عيد الفطر) – “Festival of Breaking the Fast”

• Celebrated at the end of Ramadan.

• A joyful day marked by special prayers, charity (Zakat al-Fitr), family gatherings, and feasts.

3. Eid al-Adha (عيد الأضحى) – “Festival of Sacrifice”

• Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son.

• Associated with the Hajj pilgrimage.

• Involves community prayer, charity, and sharing of meat with family and the poor.

4. Hajj (الحج) – Annual Pilgrimage

• Performed in the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah.

• One of the Five Pillars of Islam.

• Millions travel to Makkah each year for sacred rites.

5. Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year – رأس السنة الهجرية)

• Marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar (1 Muharram).

• A time of reflection and remembrance.

6. Ashura (عاشوراء)

• Observed on the 10th of Muharram.

• Significance varies:

  • For Sunnis: A day of voluntary fasting.

  • For Shia Muslims: A day of mourning for Imam Hussain (RA).