Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) 2025
Date: June 6, 2025 (Friday)
Country: Tanzania Public Holidays
Description
Feast of the Sacrifice, called Eid al Adha, is a major Muslim festival in Tanzania. It honors the story of Prophet Ibrahim and his willingness to obey God. The holiday has deep religious meaning for many people.
It takes place each year on the 10th day of the Islamic month Dhu al Hijjah. The Islamic calendar is lunar, so the date moves earlier by about 10 to 11 days each year in the Gregorian calendar. The festival usually lasts several days.
In Tanzania, Eid al Adha is a public and national holiday. Many people attend prayers, reflect, and spend time with family and community. The day emphasizes faith, obedience, and spiritual reflection for Muslims across the country.
The holiday is also significant because it follows the Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca that many Muslims aim to complete. Eid al Adha reminds believers of devotion to God and the importance of caring for others in society.
Traditions
In Tanzania families wake early and go to mosque for special prayers. After prayers people meet neighbors and relatives. They wear new clothes and women often decorate hands with henna. Children run around excited and receive small gifts or money.
Many homes buy a goat or cow for the sacrifice. Skilled people carry out the ritual and the meat is divided. Families keep some, give portions to neighbors and to poor people. Sharing meat is very important in the community.
Cooking is lively with dishes like pilau, biryani, roasted meat and sweet pastries. Houses fill with the smell of spiced rice and tea. People visit each other, greet with hugs and smiles, and enjoy large family meals together.
Travel Tips
Many banks, government offices and some shops close or open late. Airports and bus stations get very busy before and after the holiday. Book flights, ferries and trains early. Carry ID and copies of reservations. Be patient with delays.
Wear modest clothes and follow local rules. Join public events or polite community gatherings to experience the celebration safely. Keep valuables secure, avoid traveling alone at night, and know emergency numbers. Respect quiet moments and local restrictions to enjoy the holiday meaningfully.