NAIROBI, Kenya – The government has declared Friday, June 6, 2025, a public holiday to allow Muslims across the country to mark Eid-ul-Adha, one of the holiest celebrations in the Islamic calendar.
In a special gazette notice, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen made the announcement on Tuesday, invoking Section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act.
“It is notified for the general information of the public that […] Friday, 6th June, 2025, shall be a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Adha,” the notice read in part.
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering obedience to Allah, who intervened to stop him from sacrificing his son.
The occasion is marked by special prayers, acts of charity, and the ritual slaughter of animals such as sheep, goats, or cattle — with the meat distributed to the less fortunate.
The celebration, which coincides with the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, begins on the 10th day of Dhu-al-Hijjah, the final month in the Islamic lunar calendar.
However, the exact date often depends on a verified sighting of the moon.
Eid-ul-Adha is the second major Islamic holiday of the year, following Eid-ul-Fitr, which was observed on March 31 after the conclusion of Ramadan.
In Kenya, public Eid prayers typically draw large gatherings, especially in coastal counties like Mombasa and Kwale, as well as parts of Nairobi and the North Eastern region.
This year’s declaration sets the stage for a long weekend for all Kenyans, though it holds particular spiritual significance for the Muslim community.
