Topic

Eid & Islamic Holidays

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

What are the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah?

Yes, they're the most blessed days of the year: the days of Hajj, ending with Eid al-Adha. What to do in them, from dhikr to fasting.

It depends on your school, but it's at least recommended to stop cutting hair and nails from Dhul Hijjah until your qurbani is done.

Yes, most scholars allow qurbani for a deceased Muslim; Shafi'is traditionally need a will. Three practical options and non-Muslim relatives.

It depends on your school. Most scholars say one sheep covers the household; Hanafis say one per eligible adult. Plus cow and camel shares.

Yes, qurbani done abroad through a charity is valid. Pros and cons of abroad vs local, and how to pick a trustworthy qurbani charity.

Yes, giving Eid money or gifts to non-Muslim kids, like nieces, nephews or neighbors, is allowed and kind. Just don't count it as zakat.

No, Eidi isn't required. It's Eid money or gifts, mainly for kids, a cultural custom and a good deed, and it's not zakat al-fitr.

It depends on the culture: biryani, couscous, rendang, maamoul and more. Sunnah: dates before the Eid al-Fitr prayer; qurbani meat on Adha.

Yes, even new Muslims can host Eid: keep it small, halal and alcohol-free, make space for prayer, and invite someone who'd be alone.

No, fasting on Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha isn't allowed. Start Shawwal or make-up fasts the next day, and break a fast if you learn it's Eid.

Yes, on Eid al-Fitr eat a few dates before the prayer. On Eid al-Adha the sunnah is to wait and eat afterward. Neither is obligatory.

Yes, a few easy ones: bathe, wear your best clothes, eat dates before Eid al-Fitr prayer, say the takbir and go home by a different route.