Eid al-Adha 2026 is expected to begin in the UK on Wednesday, May 27, although the exact timing depends on the sighting of the moon.
What is Eid al-Adha?
The festival, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most important dates in the Islamic calendar and marks the conclusion of Hajj.
In London, it is a time of prayer, family gatherings and charitable giving, with many Muslims choosing to mark the occasion through Qurbani.
What is Eid al-Adha a celebration of?
The celebration commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice what was most precious to him in obedience to God. Qurbani is the ritual slaughter of a permitted animal, such as a sheep, goat, cow or camel, carried out after Eid prayer.
Islamic Relief says the practice is central to the spirit of Eid because it allows families who are able to give to share meat with people in need.
For many households, that donation is more than symbolic. Islamic Relief says its Qurbani programme helps deliver fresh meat to vulnerable communities and ensures the sacrifice reaches people who might otherwise rarely enjoy it.
The charity also notes that each family receiving Qurbani should get at least 4kg of meat, with the full process covering everything from purchase and preparation to halal slaughter and distribution. That means a single donation can support both the religious meaning of the day and a practical act of relief.
When is Eid-al Adha 2026?
Eid al-Adha begins on the evening of Tuesday May 26 2026, with Eid Day falling on Wednesday May 27. The three days of Eid then continue through to Friday 29 May.
Dhul Hijjah starts on Monday May 18 2026, Hajj takes place from Monday May 25 2026, and the Day of Arafah falls on Tuesday May 26 2026.
London’s wider Eid celebrations typically draw large crowds, reflecting how the festival has become part of the city’s cultural calendar as well as its religious life. But at its core, Eid al-Adha remains a reminder of sacrifice, generosity and looking after those with less.