Eid al-Adha 2023: Five celebration events in London

Muslims around the world are celebrating Eid al-Adha this week following the completion of the annual Holy Pilgrimage of Hajj - an obligation for all Muslims who fit specific criteria and also one of the five pillars of Islam.

The celebration of Eid al-Adha takes place on the 10th day in the final and the 12th month of the Islamic Lunar calendar called Dhu-al-Hijjah. It is to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to Allah and his readiness to sacrifice his son, Ismail. This is the second Eid festival of the year after Eid al-Fitr, which was celebrated last April.

As Prophet Ibrahim was about to begin the ritual sacrifice, Allah substituted Ismail with a ram instead. This command from Allah was a test of the Prophet Ibrahim’s resolve to heed his Lord’s command without question. Therefore, Eid al-Adha signifies the sacrifice festival.

Eid-al-Adha started on Wednesday June 28 and will continue through till Sunday July 2.

We’ve rounded up five celebration events happening in the capital.

1Eid Festival 2023

Southall Park, Goodmayes Park, Harrow Kenton Recreation Field, Luton Stockwood and Wardown Park

Wednesday June 28 to Sunday July 2

The 1Eid Festival is now entering its 17th year bringing together generations, cultures and communities to celebrate Eid.

This year the festival will take place at five locations and there will be food stalls, and other stalls, funfair and games, fireworks and more. For more information and tickets see here.

An Enchanted Eid

Byron Hall, Christchurch Avenue, Harrow HA3 5BD Saturday July 1 5pm Tickets £10 to £25

To celebrate Eid, Yaseen Youth are compiling performances from a variety of artists. The evening will include nasheed performances by Safe Adam, Castillo Nasheeds, Muslim Belal and Omar Esa, comedy acts by Prince Abdi, a performance by Khayal Theatre Company and a ballet performance by the renowned Grace and Poise Academy. For more information and tickets see here.

Eid al Adha party in the park

Hornimans Park, Bosworth Road, W10 5EG Saturday July 1 12pm to 6pm Free

Join in the Eid al-Adha celebrations at Hornimans Park where guests will be treated to exciting activities, halal food and performances. There are also free therapy sessions being offered at this event. For more information see here.

Eid in the Park with Annoor

Acton Park, The Vale, W3 7JX Wednesday June 28 to Sunday July 2 Free

Celebrate Eid al-Adha with the Annoor community in the park with food, games, and prayers for all to enjoy.

Eid prayers will be held at 10am every day followed by face painting, henna, bouncy castles, funfair rides and stalls. For more information see here.

The London Eid Al-Adha Fair

Epsom Downs Racecourse, Tattenham Corner Road, Epsom, KT18 5LQ Sunday July 2 12pm to 6pm

Free

This fair brings businesses and the community together at Epsom Downs Racecourse, with bouncy castles, face painting, food, henna and more.

With stunning views of London this event will be both indoor and outdoor showcasing some amazing businesses. For more information see here.