The two primary celebrations of Eid in 2025 hold immense significance for Muslims globally, each marking a distinct spiritual milestone.
As the Islamic calendar is lunar, these dates shift annually compared to the Gregorian calendar. In 2025, Muslims observed the first Eid, Eid ul-Fitr, in late March.
Now, the community eagerly anticipates the second, Eid ul-Adha, expected in early June. Understanding these dates and their importance helps everyone appreciate the rich tapestry of Islamic traditions.
Muslims cherish two major Eid festivals each year: Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha. Both are times of joy, prayer, community, and charity.
However, they commemorate different events and occur at different times. Knowing the 2025 Eid ul Fitr date and the 2025 eid ul-adha date is crucial for Muslims to prepare for these sacred occasions.
Eid ul-Fitr 2025
Eid ul-Fitr, often called the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” marked the end of Ramadan in 2025. When is Ramadan 2025?
This holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims began on approximately Friday, February 28, 2025. For about 30 days, Muslims abstained from food and drink from dawn until sunset.
It was a period of intense devotion, self-discipline, and increased charity.
Following this month of spiritual dedication, the 2025 Eid ul Fitr date arrived. It was celebrated globally around Sunday, March 30, 2025, or Monday, March 31, 2025.
The exact date depended on the sighting of the new crescent moon, which signals the start of the Islamic month of Shawwal.
In the UK, many Muslim communities, like those guided by the East London Mosque and Islamic Relief UK, celebrated Eid ul Fitr 2025 UK on Sunday, March 30, 2025.
The Essence of Eid ul-Fitr
Eid ul-Fitr is a joyous culmination of Ramadan’s efforts. The day typically begins with a special congregational prayer called Salat al-Eid, held in mosques or large open areas.
Before this prayer, Muslims fulfill a charitable obligation known as Zakat al-Fitr.
This is a donation, usually of food items or its monetary equivalent, given to ensure that less fortunate members of the community can also partake in the Eid festivities.
This act emphasizes the spirit of generosity and communal responsibility that is central to Islam.
After the prayers, families and friends gather to celebrate. People wear their best clothes, often new ones bought for the occasion. Homes are decorated, and festive meals are prepared and shared.
Children often receive gifts, money (known as ‘Eidi’), and sweets.
It is a time for forgiveness, expressing gratitude to Allah (God) for the strength to complete Ramadan, and strengthening bonds with loved ones.
The atmosphere is filled with happiness, relief, and a profound sense of spiritual accomplishment. Visiting relatives and friends is a common practice, spreading goodwill and cheer throughout the community.
The greeting “Eid Mubarak,” meaning “Blessed Eid,” echoes in homes and streets.
Eid ul-Adha 2025
The second major Islamic festival is Eid ul-Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice.” When is eid al-adha? This festival occurs during Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar.
The 2025 eid ul-adha date is anticipated to fall around Friday, June 6, 2025, or Saturday, June 7, 2025.
Like Eid ul-Fitr, the exact date will be confirmed by the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon, likely to be looked for around May 27th or 28th, 2025.
Consequently, the Day of Arafah, an integral day of Hajj and a significant day of fasting for non-pilgrims, would be on June 5th or June 6th.
For Muslims in the United Kingdom, the Eid ul Adha 2025 UK celebrations are expected to align with these global predictions, beginning around Friday, June 6, 2025.
Dhul Hijjah is likely to commence around May 28, 2025, with the Hajj pilgrimage rituals starting around June 4, 2025. Eid ul-Adha celebrations traditionally last for three to four days.
The Significance of Eid ul-Adha
Eid ul-Adha holds immense religious importance. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God’s command.
Just as Ibrahim was about to perform the sacrifice, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead. This event highlights themes of devotion, submission, and God’s mercy.
A central ritual of Eid ul-Adha is the Qurbani, or sacrifice. Muslims who can afford it sacrifice an animal (such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel).
The meat from the sacrificed animal is then divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy.
This act of sharing ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial status, can enjoy a nourishing meal during the festival.
The Qurbani underscores the importance of charity and remembering those less fortunate.
Eid ul-Adha also coincides with the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is a journey that every adult Muslim who is physically and financially able must undertake at least once in their lifetime.
Millions of Muslims from around the world gather in Mecca to perform a series of rituals that retrace the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim and his family.
The Day of Arafah, when pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafah in deep prayer, is considered the pinnacle of Hajj.
Similar to Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha begins with a special congregational prayer.
Families then gather, share festive meals, exchange gifts, and visit loved ones. The spirit of sacrifice, gratitude, and community bonding defines this important Islamic festival.
Understanding the Islamic Calendar and Moon Sighting
To understand why Eid in 2025 has two distinct dates that shift annually in the Gregorian calendar, it is essential to understand the Islamic calendar.
The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar. This means its months are based on the cycles of the moon. A new month begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon (Hilal).
An Islamic month is typically 29 or 30 days long. Consequently, the Islamic lunar year is about 10 to 11 days shorter than the Gregorian solar year.
This difference causes Islamic holidays to move forward by approximately 10 to 11 days each year in relation to the Gregorian calendar.
The tradition of moon sighting plays a crucial role in determining the start of Islamic months, including Ramadan, Shawwal (for Eid ul-Fitr), and Dhul Hijjah (for Eid ul-Adha).
While astronomical calculations can predict the probable dates with high accuracy, the traditional method involves actual naked-eye observation of the crescent moon on the 29th day of the preceding month.
If the moon is sighted, the new month begins the next day. If not, the current month completes 30 days, and the new month starts thereafter.
This practice can sometimes lead to slight variations in celebration dates across different countries and communities, although many follow the announcements from Saudi Arabia, particularly for Dhul Hijjah and Hajj.
Eid 2026
For those planning further ahead, the predicted dates for Eid 2026 also illustrate this annual shift:
- Eid ul-Fitr 2026 is anticipated to be around Friday, March 20, 2026, or Saturday, March 21, 2026. This will again mark the end of Ramadan for that year.
- Eid ul-Adha 2026 is predicted to occur around Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
These dates are, as always, subject to the official moon sighting.
When is Eid Mubarak? The Universal Greeting
The phrase “Eid Mubarak” is a traditional Muslim greeting reserved for the Eid festivals. When is Eid Mubarak used? It is exchanged on both Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha.
“Eid” refers to the festival itself, meaning “feast” or “celebration,” while “Mubarak” means “blessed.” So, “Eid Mubarak” translates to “Blessed Eid” or “Have a blessed celebration.”
This greeting is a way for Muslims to express good wishes to one another during these holy days. It encapsulates the joy, gratitude, and sense of community that these festivals bring.
You will hear it in homes, mosques, and public spaces where Muslims gather to celebrate. It is often accompanied by handshakes, hugs (among people of the same gender, depending on cultural norms), and smiles, fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Deeper Meanings and Community Spirit of Eid
Beyond the specific rituals and dates, both Eids carry profound meanings and foster a strong sense of community. They are times for spiritual reflection, renewing faith, and strengthening family ties.
Charity: A Cornerstone of Eid
A vital aspect of both Eid festivals is the emphasis on charity. Zakat al-Fitr before Eid ul-Fitr prayers and the Qurbani during Eid ul-Adha are designed to ensure that the joy of Eid is shared by all members of the community, especially those in need. These acts of giving purify the giver’s wealth and soul and bring happiness to the recipients. They remind Muslims of their social responsibility and the importance of compassion and generosity, which are core Islamic values. Many Muslims also choose these blessed times to give additional voluntary charity (Sadaqah).
Prayer and Reflection
The special Eid prayers are significant congregational events. They bring Muslims together in large numbers, fostering a sense of unity and collective worship. The sermons (khutbah) delivered after the prayers often remind attendees of their spiritual duties, the significance of the festival, and the importance of continuing good deeds beyond the Eid celebration. Eid is not just about feasting and festivity; it is also a time to reflect on one’s relationship with God and to strive for spiritual improvement.
Family and Community
Eids are synonymous with family. It is a time when extended families make a special effort to come together, often traveling long distances to be with loved ones. Sharing meals, exchanging gifts, and spending quality time together strengthen familial bonds. The community aspect extends beyond the family to neighbors and the wider Muslim Ummah (global community). Mosques often organize community events and meals, further enhancing the spirit of togetherness. These gatherings provide opportunities to reconnect with old friends and make new ones, reinforcing social cohesion.
Cultural Diversity in Celebrations
While the core religious tenets of Eid are the same worldwide, the cultural expressions of celebration can vary beautifully across different countries and regions. Traditional foods, clothing styles, and local customs add a rich diversity to the Eid experience. From the sweet treats of Eid ul-Fitr to the savory meat dishes of Eid ul-Adha, the culinary traditions are an integral part of the festivities. This diversity showcases the global nature of Islam and how it integrates with various cultures while maintaining its fundamental principles.
The Spirit of Forgiveness and Renewal
Eid is also a time for forgiveness and reconciliation. Muslims are encouraged to let go of past grievances, forgive those who may have wronged them, and seek forgiveness from others. This spirit of renewal allows individuals and communities to start afresh, strengthening relationships and fostering harmony. It is a practical application of the Islamic teachings of mercy and compassion.
Preparing for Eid ul-Adha 2025
As the 2025 eid ul-adha date approaches, Muslims around the world will begin their preparations.
This includes:
- Spiritual Preparation: The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are considered highly sacred. Many Muslims fast during these days, especially on the Day of Arafah (the 9th of Dhul Hijjah), which is believed to expiate sins for two years. Increased prayer, Quran recitation, and remembrance of God (Dhikr) are also common practices.
- Arranging for Qurbani: Those intending to perform the sacrifice will make arrangements to purchase an animal or contribute to a collective Qurbani program, often through mosques or charitable organizations that distribute the meat to the needy locally or internationally.
- Shopping and Home Preparation: Families will shop for new clothes and gifts, especially for children. Homes are cleaned and decorated to welcome the festive occasion. Special ingredients for traditional Eid meals are purchased.
- Planning Gatherings: Invitations are extended to family and friends for meals and get-togethers. Travel plans may be made to visit relatives in other towns or cities.
- Learning and Reminding: Mosques and community leaders often deliver sermons and talks about the significance of Dhul Hijjah, Hajj, and Eid ul-Adha, reminding people of the virtues and rituals associated with this period.
The anticipation for Eid ul-Adha builds throughout these preparatory days, culminating in the joyous celebration that unites Muslims in faith and gratitude.
FAQs – Eid & Ramadan 2025
Basic Information
1. What are the expected dates for Eid in 2025?
In 2025, there will be two Eids:
- Eid-ul-Fitr 2025: Expected on Monday, March 31, 2025 (marks the end of Ramadan)
- Eid-ul-Adha 2025: Expected on Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Note: These dates are based on astronomical calculations and subject to official moon sighting.
2. Is there more than one Ramadan in 2025?
No, there will be only one Ramadan in 2025. It is expected to begin around Saturday, March 1, 2025, and end with Eid-ul-Fitr on March 31, 2025.
However, due to the difference between the Islamic lunar calendar and the Gregorian solar calendar, some years may have two Ramadans over a 33–34-month cycle, but not within the same Gregorian year like 2025.
3. What are the Ramadan dates in 2025?
Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on March 1, 2025, and end with Eid-ul-Fitr on March 31, 2025, depending on moon sighting.
4. Will Ramadan 2025 be 29 or 30 days long?
Ramadan can be either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the new moon that marks the beginning of Shawwal (Eid-ul-Fitr). In 2025, it is expected to be 30 days, ending on March 31.
5. Which year will Ramadan occur twice?
Ramadan will occur twice in the Gregorian calendar year of 2032:
- First in January 2032
- Second in December 2032
This happens approximately every 33 years due to the Islamic lunar calendar being about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar.
6. Which year will have three Eids?
In 2033, Muslims around the world will experience a rare occurrence — three Eid celebrations within a single Gregorian calendar year.
This phenomenon is due to the Islamic lunar calendar, which shifts approximately 10–11 days earlier each year relative to the solar (Gregorian) calendar.
This shift can occasionally result in two Ramadans and two Eid al-Fitrs falling within the same year, leading to three major Islamic holidays in one year:
- Eid al-Fitr (First) – January 2, 2033 (1 Shawwal 1454)
- Eid al-Adha – March 11, 2033 (10 Dhul Hijjah 1454)
- Eid al-Fitr (Second) – December 23, 2033 (1 Shawwal 1455)
The second Eid al-Fitr in late December 2033 follows a second Ramadan that begins in late November 2033.
As a result, this final Eid will occur just two days before Christmas Day, likely falling on Sunday, December 25, 2033.
This rare alignment highlights the dynamic nature of the Islamic calendar and offers a unique opportunity for global interfaith awareness as two major religious celebrations — Islam’s Eid al-Fitr and Christianity’s Christmas — occur within days of each other.
7. Which year will have two Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations?
No year has two Eid-ul-Fitrs. Each year has only one Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan. However, due to differences in moon sightings across countries, some communities may celebrate it on different days, giving the impression of multiple Eids.
Eid Celebrations
8. Is Eid Mubarak said twice a year?
Yes, “Eid Mubarak” is traditionally said twice a year — once for Eid-ul-Fitr and once for Eid-ul-Adha.
9. Which year did Eid-ul-Adha fall on Christmas Day?
Eid-ul-Adha fell on December 25, 2017. According to lunar cycle projections, it could again fall near Christmas in the future, such as around 2081 or 2133, though exact dates vary by region due to moon sighting.
Countdown & Planning
10. How much time is left until Ramadan 2025?
As of today (April 5, 2025), Ramadan 2025 has already begun, starting around March 1, 2025, and ended with Eid-ul-Fitr on March 31, 2025.
If you’re asking ahead of time (e.g., in late 2024), then Ramadan 2025 was about 11 months away.
Summary Table
| Event | Expected Date (2025) |
|---|---|
| Ramadan Begins | March 1 |
| Eid-ul-Fitr | March 31 |
| Eid-ul-Adha | June 18 |
| Ramadan Duration | 30 days |
| Next Year with 2 Ramadans | 2032 |
Happy Eid and blessed Ramadan!
Embracing the Blessings of Eid
The two Eid in 2025 festivals, Eid ul-Fitr which was celebrated in March, and the upcoming Eid ul-Adha in June, are cornerstones of the Islamic faith and practice.
They are much more than just holidays; they are profound expressions of faith, gratitude, community, and compassion.
Eid ul-Fitr celebrates the successful completion of Ramadan’s rigorous fasting and spiritual discipline, while Eid ul-Adha commemorates the ultimate act of submission by Prophet Ibrahim and coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage.
While the 2025 Eid ul Fitr date has passed, the lessons of Ramadan and the joy of its celebration continue to resonate.
Now, the Muslim world looks forward to the 2025 eid ul-adha date, a time for sacrifice, sharing, and reflecting on deeper spiritual meanings.
The predicted dates for Eid ul Adha 2025 UK and globally offer a chance to prepare for this significant festival.
Even looking ahead to Eid 2026 helps in understanding the beautiful rhythm of the Islamic calendar.
These festivals remind Muslims of the importance of prayer, charity, family, and community.
The greeting of When is Eid Mubarak is not just a phrase but an embodiment of the well wishes and shared happiness that these occasions bring.
Are you ready to embrace the spirit of Eid?
As Eid ul-Adha 2025 approaches, take the opportunity to learn more about its significance. If you are Muslim, prepare for the blessed days of Dhul Hijjah and the joy of Eid.
Consider how you can embody the spirit of sacrifice and generosity. If you are not Muslim, understanding these festivals can foster greater appreciation for the rich diversity of cultures and faiths in our world.
May the upcoming Eid ul-Adha be a time of immense blessing, joy, and spiritual growth for all who observe it.
