What is Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha is a Muslim festival which marks the conclusion of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca and honoring the sacrifice of Abraham. It is called "The Festival of the Sacrifice." It is the second of two Islamic holidays that are celebrated worldwide each year. Eid al Adha is the holier of the two. Many Muslims of a variety of heritages, including Pakistan, Eastern European and African countries, gather together for this four- day event.

The holiday follows Ramadan, which is a holiday of fasting from dawn until dusk. The main focus during this period is known as Zakat, which is the act of giving to charity. When families can afford it, they sacrifice an animal, such as a sheep, cow, goat, or camel. The meat is shared among the families, and then the rest is given to the poor.