Eid Mubarak meaning: how to wish someone a happy Eid - and when the festival is celebrated in 2021

Eid is one of the biggest celebrations in the Islamic faith, with millions of Muslims marking the annual festival all over the world.

Eid comprises two festivals, called Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, and is celebrated after the holy month of Ramadan.

Eid-al Fitr is the first of the celebrations, which will be marked from 12 to 13 May this year, followed by Eid al-Adha on 19 July.

Here’s what you need to know about the festival.

When is Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr is called the ‘Festival of Breaking the Fast’ and celebrates the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan.

The festival will last for one day in the UK, between Wednesday 12 May and Thursday 13 May.

Eid is the only day in the month of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims are not permitted to fast.

Unlike Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr will typically be celebrated with meals with communities and many will indulge in sweet treats after their fasting during Ramadan.

It is also a time when gifts are exchanged, new clothes are worn, and people will visit the graves of loved ones they have lost.

What is Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha is known as the ‘Festival of Sacrifice’, and commemorates the prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, to demonstrate his devotion to Allah.

According to the Quran, Allah replaced Ismail with a lamb at the last moment, just as Ibrahim was about to perform the sacrifice, thereby sparing his son’s life.

Eid al-Adha lasts for five days, with this year’s festival celebrated from 19 July to 23 July.

How is Eid al-Adha celebrated?

In commemoration of Ibrahim’s dedication to God, Muslims celebrate with feasts and prayers with family, friends and the wider community. The festival encourages followers of the faith to be thankful for their loved ones and to repent any past sins so they can learn for the future.

It is customary on Eid al-Adha to give money to charity, while gifts will also be given to children.

Muslims will spend the occasion visiting relatives and friends, and they will share meals together, as well as prayers. In some countries, it is tradition to sacrifice an animal and share the meat between the poor, immediate family, and relatives for the feast.

Eid al-Adha also coincides with Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, in Saudi Arabia.

However, while some Muslims will make the journey to Mecca to mark the occasion, others will celebrate in their local mosque.

How do I wish someone a happy Eid?

Much like other religious celebrations, it is customary to send messages and well wishes to family and friends during Eid.

To wish someone a happy Eid, you can simply say “Eid Mubarak”, which means you are wishing them a “blessed Eid.”

Here are some other well wishes and greetings you can express during the festival:

"May the divine blessings of Allah bring you hope, faith, and joy on Eid al-Adha and forever. Happy Eid al-Adha 2020!”

"May the magic of this Eid bring lots of happiness in your life and may you celebrate it with all your close friends and may it fill your heart with wonders. Eid Mubarak!"

"May the divine blessings of Allah bring you hope, faith and joy on Eid al-Adha and forever. Happy Eid al-Adha!"

“May Allah’s blessings be with you today and always. Eid al-Adha Mubarak!

“In every shared smile and laughter; In every silent prayer answered; In every opportunity that comes your way – may Allah bless you immensely! Eid Mubarak!”

“Wishing that your prayers are answered and your sacrifices appreciated by the almighty. Eid Mubarak!”

“Sending you warm wishes on Eid and wishing that it brings your way ever joys and happiness. Remember me in your prayers.”

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