Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) in Ethiopia

Meaning and timing

Eid al-Adha, also called the Feast of Sacrifice, recalls Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. It is observed by Muslims around the world and coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.[2][3]

The holiday follows the Islamic lunar calendar. The Ethiopian News Agency explains that the Gregorian date varies with the lunar cycle and moon sighting.[3]

How it is observed in Ethiopia

Ethiopian reporting describes congregational Eid prayers in the morning, including gatherings at mosques and open prayer grounds. Reports have documented large gatherings in Addis Ababa and other cities, as well as prayers in towns and districts across the country.[2][3]

Animal sacrifice is a customary part of the observance for some Muslims. Ethiopian news coverage describes meat from the sacrifice being shared with people in need, and religious leaders have urged celebrants to remember neighbors and less privileged people.[2][4]

Families and communities also share meals and offer charitable support. Reports from Ethiopia describe these acts as expressions of solidarity and an opportunity to strengthen social ties; specific foods and customs can vary.[3][4]

Public holiday and practical effects

Proclamation No. 1334/2024 lists Eid al-Adha among the religious holidays celebrated nationally. It provides for government and non-government institutions to close for public service on religious holidays, and says employees’ salaries are not to be deducted for not working on those days.[1]

Some services must continue, including public transport, hospitals, pharmacies, utilities, and police and emergency services. Hotels, restaurants, groceries, commercial shops, and stores may also operate, so opening hours can differ by business; the law does not establish the actual hours of individual banks or shops.[1]

The proclamation identifies Eid al-Adha as a public holiday but does not set out a general substitute-day rule for it.[1]