Topic

Eid & Islamic Holidays

Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, qurbani, Hajj and the Islamic calendar. Short, honest answers for new Muslims.

Can a non-Muslim butcher slaughter my qurbani?

A non-Muslim butcher can't make your qurbani valid unless Christian or Jewish, and even then scholars differ. Best: a Muslim slaughters it.

Yes, vegetarians can do qurbani. The sacrifice is the worship, not eating the meat, so you can give all of it to family, friends and the poor.

No, you shouldn't sell qurbani meat or skin. Eat it, gift it or give it in charity, and pay the butcher a separate fee, not with parts of the animal.

Jumu'atul Wida is the last Friday of Ramadan, the 'farewell Friday'. It's blessed, but has no special prayer like 'qada umri'. Here's why.

Shaban is the 8th Islamic month, right before Ramadan. Learn why the Prophet fasted most in it and how to use it to prepare for Ramadan.

Yes, you can break a voluntary fast for an Eid invitation. The Prophet broke voluntary fasts too; fasting on Eid day itself isn't allowed.

If it rains, the Eid prayer moves indoors to the mosque or a hall. It's never cancelled, and in severe weather you may pray it at home instead.

Share Eid with your kids' non-Muslim parent by agreeing dates early, explaining Eid simply, including them kindly and never making kids choose.

Yes, you can celebrate Eid in prison. Ask the Muslim chaplain about the Eid prayer and meal; Allah rewards what you are prevented from doing.

Yes, most scholars allow fireworks for Eid as harmless fun if they're legal, safe and don't disturb neighbours, though some discourage the waste.

Yes, you can say "Eid Mubarak" before Eid starts. It's a greeting with no fixed time, so wishing people a blessed Eid in advance is fine.

No, Islam doesn't require you to spend Eid with your in-laws. Be kind to both families and agree on a fair plan together with your spouse.