What Is Tabaski? Understanding Eid al-Adha and Its Significance

Eid al-Adha, also known as Tabaski in West Africa, is one of the most important Islamic holidays. Alongside Eid al-Fitr, it is one of the two main festivals observed by Muslims around the world.

It’s a meaningful occasion to give thanks for the blessings received during the year, to spend time with family and friends, and to extend kindness and generosity to those in need.

While its origins are rooted in shared religious tradition, each country adds its own unique cultural touches to the festivities, creating a beautiful tapestry of diverse celebrations united by common values.

What Is Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha literally translates to “the Festival of Sacrifice”. It honors the prophet Ibrahim (also known as Abraham), who also appears in Jewish and Christian religious scriptures.

As the story goes, Ibrahim prepared to sacrifice his son following Allah’s orders, in a demonstration of his unwavering faith. At the very last moment, Allah intervenes, substituting the boy for a ram to be sacrificed in his place as a reward for Ibrahim’s pious obedience.

Eid al-Adha history is therefore rooted in sacred texts. The timeless lesson of this particular story, about devotion and faithfulness, remains at the heart of the Festival of Sacrifice today.

This holiday also marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage which represents one of the Five Pillars of Islam. These pillars are the religion’s core beliefs and practices:

• Shahada: The profession of faith.
• Salat: The daily five prayers.
• Zakat: The donation of a portion your income to community members in need.
• Sawm: Fasting during the holy month of Ramadan.
• Hajj: The pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca.

This celebration therefore holds a deep spiritual significance, representing both personal faith and the broader values of compassion.

When is Eid al-Adha Celebrated?

Unlike the festivities that follow the Gregorian calendar (the prevalent calendar in most parts of the world), Eid al-Adha follows the Islamic lunar calendar used to determine Muslim religious holidays and rituals, known as the Hijri calendar.

While the Gregorian calendar is based on the annual cycle of the earth around the sun, the Islamic calendar is based on the monthly cycles of the moon’s phases.

The festival takes place on the 10^th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the calendar. However, because the precise length of lunar months can vary slightly, the exact date of Eid al-Adha can be difficult to predict far in advance. But it is possible to make an accurate estimation.

Eid al-Adha 2025 is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, June 6. The celebrations will last anywhere from two to four days, depending on the country and local customs.

How do People Celebrate Eid al-Adha?

Although celebrations may differ from one country to another, the core of the holiday remains the same. Here are some of the main Eid al-Adha traditions that are considered staples of the festival:

Eid Salah
On this date, people must attend the special congregational Eid al-Adha prayers held in the morning. They are usually a moment of reflection, gratitude, and unity.

Qurbani
In memory of Ibrahim’s devotion, people who can afford to do so perform the ritual sacrifice of an animal, typically a sheep, goat, cow, bull, or camel. The meat is then divided in three parts: one-third of the meat is kept for the family, one-third is given to friends and relatives, and one-third is distributed to those in need.

Gatherings
Families often travel a great distance to reunite with their loved ones for Eid al-Adha. They share festive meals and exchange gifts. These gatherings are a moment to strengthen bonds, reconnect with loved ones, and create lasting memories.

Celebratory food
Food plays a central role in the celebrations, although dishes vary greatly from country to country. Eid al-Adha food varies wildly from Morocco to Mali or from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, as every country has their own traditional meal for this occasion. Every dish reflects a unique blend of religious and local culinary traditions.

Charity and Solidarity
Generosity and compassion are at the core of this holiday. People come together to support those who are struggling, so that no one is left out of the Eid al-Adha celebration. This ensures that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can partake in the joy of the festival.

If you’d like to wish someone well during this holiday, you can say “Eid Mubarak”, which is one of the traditional Eid al-Adha greetings, meaning “Blessed Eid”.

Tabaski: The West African Name for Eid al-Adha

Though the celebrations are the same around the world, some regions have found ways to make the festival their own.

In several West African countries, Eid al-Adha is known as Tabaski. You might be wondering, what is the meaning of Tabaski?

Well, the name is believed to originate from a Wolof expression used to refer to the holiday. Wolof is an ethnicity, a culture, and a language present across several countries, namely Senegal, Mauritania, and The Gambia.

The Wolof language is spoken by millions across the region. It is the most widely spoken tongue in Senegal, and even non-Wolof ethnic groups learn it as a second language to be able to communicate.

Given the language’s widespread influence and the fact that over 90% of the region’s population is Muslim, it’s no surprise that the festival has become locally known as Tabaski. It reflects how this religious practice has become deeply embedded in West Africa’s social and cultural fabric.

Embracing the Spirit of Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha is more than a religious festival, it’s a time where faith, community, and culture intertwine.

For those fortunate enough to celebrate with loved ones nearby, it’s a precious time to gather and give thanks. For those separated by distance, it can be bittersweet, but there are meaningful ways to stay connected.

Whether you’re sending warm wishes, providing financial support, or contributing to your community, it’s a time to reflect on the values that unite us, no matter where we are in the world.

If you need to send money to loved ones this Eid al-Adha, you can use our web, app, or visit your nearest Ria location.