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Muslim students at McLean celebrated Eid al-Adha on May 28 with communal prayer, family gatherings and reflections on faith. The holiday is the second Eid of the year, following Eid al-Fitr, and coincides with the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage during Dhul Hijjah.

Junior Leem Ubaid Areef said Eid al-Adha is significant because it follows major acts of devotion in Islam, including the pilgrimage to Mecca. Eid al-Fitr similarly follows the completion of Ramadan.

The day traditionally begins with prayer, often performed with a congregation at a mosque. Many worshippers also wear new clothes for the occasion.

“We usually wear new clothes as a kind of celebration and pray together in the morning,” said junior Raya Al-Chaderechi, vice president of McLean’s Muslim Student Association. “It’s important because it brings people together and connects us to our deen (faith).”

Celebrations continue afterward as families share meals, exchange gifts and enjoy activities together. Areef said her extended family usually gathers for a large lunch featuring cultural dishes that honor their national heritage and traditions.

Eid al-Adha also commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. Muslims may mark that devotion through the sacrifice of livestock, with the observance emphasizing generosity toward people in need.

“Eid reminds us to be thankful for our blessings and to help those who are less fortunate through charity and kindness,” said sophomore Adil Ahmed Shaik, the MSA’s events coordinator.

With both annual Eid celebrations now complete, students are reflecting on their experiences and anticipating next year’s observances.

“I love Eid because it unites my family and I together,” Areef said. “It [also] encourages me to stay devoted to religious practices.”