The final month of the Islamic lunar calendar will begin tomorrow, Monday May 18, and Eid al-Adha will be observed on Wednesday, May 27
17:17, 17 May 2026Updated 17:22, 17 May 2026
The date of Eid al-Adha has been announced after the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon was sighted in Saudi Arabia
The date of Eid al-Adha has been announced after the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon was sighted in Saudi Arabia.
The final month of the Islamic lunar calendar will begin on Monday (May 18) with Eid al-Adha celebrated on Wednesday (May 27).
Islamic communities in the United Kingdom are expected to closely follow the announcement, although some may rely on local moon sightings.
Read More: When is Eid al-Adha and what’s happening around Birmingham 2026
The festival remembers the prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son when ordered by God and marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
Taking place over three days, it is a holy time of year and a special time for prayer, family and presents.
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Muslims give their own sacrifice (Qurbani) to help the poor and needy.
This year’s dates have fallen in the May half term and Fort Shopping Park is hosting a special family day to mark the second Eid celebration.
The free shopping event will take place on Tuesday May 26 from 11am to 5pm at the Erdington retail park.
Tunisia, Indonesia, Oman and Malaysia have also confirmed the same dates so far, with Turkey relying on a pre-calculated Islamic calendar rather than physical moon sightings.
The Dhul Hijjah crescent has not been sighted India, so Eid al-Adha will be observed in India on Thursday May 28.