Eid al-Adha, also known as 'Festival of the Sacrifice', is one of the most significant holidays celebrated in Iran. The festival is observed by Muslims worldwide as a commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim's (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience and devotion towards God. This act of faith is marked every year by Muslims in Iran on the 10th day of the Islamic lunar month Dhul Hijjah lasting for four days.
With prayerful and festive activities spanning across a period of four days, Eid al-Adha in Iran sees participation from both local residents and visitors alike. The celebration initiates with a special prayer known as Salah al-Eid after sunrise in congregation. The main event of the festival is the act of Qurbani, or animal sacrifice following the prayer, to symbolize Prophet Ibrahim's submission to God. Typically, goats, sheep, and cows are sacrificed, and the meat is distributed among family members, neighbors, and the needy.
Eid al-Adha in Iran also emphasizes charity and community. It has been tradition for all individuals who have the financial capability to make a sacrifice. The meat of the sacrifice is usually divided into three parts. One part is for the one who made the sacrifice and their family, another part is for the relatives and neighbors, and the last part is to be given to the poor. This distribution emphasizes the importance of community, sharing, and looking after the less fortunate in society. The holiday is also a time for people to visit family and friends, exchange gifts and strengthen bonds of affection and camaraderie.