Saturday, Oct. 4 was Eid al-Adha, one of the two major holidays for Muslims around the world. Eid al-Adha is the celebration of the completion of the pilgrimage (Hajj). Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam that all Muslims strive to complete at least once in their lives.

1. Clothes

On Eid, Muslims usually wear new clothes. These clothes tend to be traditional and formal. More than likely it’s the best outfit you have in your wardrobe. Girls pick their outfits weeks in advance because EVERYONE in the community will be seeing them either at prayer or at parties.

2. Eid Khutba/Prayer

The Eid Khutba is a sermon given by Imam before prayer. It is usually just a short lesson or reminder to guide follower. Ex) Forgiveness, Patience. Prayer follows the Khutba. It is amazing to watch because you see the entire community standing shoulder-to-shoulder, praying together.

3. Parties/Open Houses

Aunties and uncles in the community host parties on Eid day and they go on for hours. People come and go as they please and eat until they can no longer move. There are multiple parties in one day and people basically party hop. This is where you hang out with your friends and show off your clothes.

4. Mehndi and Dance Parties

This one pertains to mostly females. The night before Eid (chaand raat) girls will put on festive mehndi (henna) on their hands. They usually do their mehndi at a dance party hosted by one of the aunties in the community. But don’t stay out too late because you have to wake up early for Eid tomorrow.

5. Eidi

Eidi is money that your elders give you as presents. The better you are, the more money you get. You spend this money on important things, like pizza.