Eid al-Adha, known in Kosovo and Turkic regions as 'Kurban Bajram', is a highly significant and widely celebrated Islamic holiday. Despite Kosovo being a secular country, it constitutes a majority Muslim population making this holiday particularly significant. Eid al-Adha, or Feast of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his only son as an act of submission to God's will. This event in Islamic history plays a crucial role in the faith, promoting values like willingness, sacrifice, and obedience.
On this holy day, the streets of Kosovo are buzzing with festivity and joy. Families fulfill the traditional act of Qurbani, which involves the sacrificing of a livestock animal such as a sheep or cow. The meat from the slaughtered animal is divided into three portions, one for the family, one for relatives and neighbors, and one for the poor. This act of charity ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances, can partake in the feast. People dress up in their best clothing, visit each other's homes, and exchange gifts, creating an atmosphere of community bonding.
Eid al-Adha in Kosovo is also marked by congregational prayers in mosques and prayer grounds. The mosques are filled to the brim, with many people spilling over into the streets. This event strengthens the bonds within the community and fosters a sense of unity. In recent years, the government in Kosovo recognizes this event as a public holiday, allowing Muslims to fully participate in the rituals and festivities. There is also a tradition of visiting graves of loved ones, thus honoring the deceased as part of the festivities.