In 2025, the sacred celebration of togetherness, sacrifice, and reflection is expected to begin on the evening of Sunday, June 8, with the primary day of observance falling on Monday, June 9.
However, as with every year, the date may vary depending on moon sightings in different parts of the world.
Unlike fixed dates in the solar calendar, this occasion follows the lunar cycle—an ancient rhythm that keeps each year’s commemoration moving backward by roughly 10 to 11 days. This unique aspect makes the event not only a spiritual touchstone but also a celestial experience.
Why the Date Changes Every Year
The celebration falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the final month in the lunar calendar. Since lunar months are shorter than solar months, the timing of this occasion shifts earlier each year by about 11 days.
That means while in 2024 it was observed in mid-June, in 2025 it will arrive a bit earlier—early June. This gradual drift across seasons gives the festival a rare kind of flexibility: over decades, it has been observed in the heat of summer and the chill of winter, weaving its way through different climates and cultural rhythms.
Moon Sighting and Regional Differences
What adds complexity to predicting the exact day is the role of the crescent moon. In some regions—especially in South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East—authorities or local committees observe the night sky. If the new moon is sighted, the month of Dhu al-Hijjah officially begins, and ten days later, the celebration occurs.
Due to geographic and atmospheric variations, not all countries spot the moon on the same evening. This leads to a fascinating reality: the same celebration can occur on different days in different parts of the world. For example:
• Saudi Arabia is often among the first to announce the beginning of the lunar month.
• India, and Bangladesh may observe it a day later due to their position further east and local moon-sighting committees.
• Western countries with Muslim populations, like the UK or USA, may follow Saudi Arabia or rely on local astronomical data and mosque announcements.
The Ten Sacred Days Before
The lead-up to the day itself holds immense value. The first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah are considered deeply meaningful—days of increased devotion, reflection, and charitable acts. Many people fast, increase their prayer routines, and spend more time in acts of kindness during this spiritually heightened period.
Preparations also intensify in this phase. Markets bustle with shoppers searching for traditional clothing, spices, and sweets. Families begin budgeting and arranging the symbolic offerings that form a core part of the day’s rituals.
Celebration Day Traditions
When the day arrives, it begins with early morning prayers in open fields, large mosques, or community centers. The feeling is almost electric—clothing that’s freshly pressed, perfumes in the air, children excited, and a palpable sense of unity.
After prayers, the offering ritual takes place. The act, rooted in a powerful narrative of devotion, is followed by an outpouring of generosity. Meat is carefully distributed—one portion kept for the household, one shared with relatives and friends, and one donated to those in need.
Beyond this, families visit one another, meals are shared, and stories are told. It’s a day that blends tradition with community—both intimate and communal.
How the World Prepares
From Morocco’s vibrant souks to Indonesia’s peaceful villages, each region has its own way of preparing for this spiritual day:
• In Egypt, street markets overflow with lanterns and decorations weeks before the day.
• In India, temporary markets for livestock pop up in every major city.
• In Nigeria, the celebration is marked with cultural performances, traditional music, and vibrant family feasts.
• In Indonesia, the day is intertwined with public awareness drives about environmental responsibility during the ritual offering.
• In the United Kingdom, multicultural events and food drives ensure that the spirit of giving reaches far beyond individual homes.
These diverse practices reflect the universality of the occasion, even though its timing may differ slightly across the globe.
What to Remember in 2025
As the world prepares for June 9, 2025 (tentatively), one must remember that this is more than just a date. It’s a call to pause, reflect, and give. It’s about connecting with others—through action, generosity, and empathy.
Whether you’re watching for the crescent moon, preparing your home for guests, or donating quietly in someone’s name, this day invites you to be part of something much larger than yourself.
Let this day, whenever it reaches your door, be a reminder that while we may live under different skies, our hopes, faith, and kindness can rise together—like the moon that signals the start of something sacred.
