Eid ul Adha vs Eid ul Fitr: What's the Difference?

Islam has two annual festivals, both called "Eid." Though they share prayers, greetings and a spirit of gratitude, they mark completely different occasions. Here is a clear comparison.

The two Eids at a glance

	Eid ul Fitr	Eid ul Adha
Meaning	"Festival of Breaking the Fast"	"Festival of Sacrifice"
Marks	The end of Ramadan	The completion of Hajj & Ibrahim's sacrifice
Date	1 Shawwal	10 Dhul Hijjah
2026 date	~20 March 2026	27 May 2026
Duration	1 day (commonly 3)	Up to 4 days (10–13 Dhul Hijjah)
Key act	Zakat al-Fitr before the prayer	Qurbani (animal sacrifice)
Common name	"Choti Eid" / "Meethi Eid"	"Bari Eid" / "Bakra Eid"

Eid ul Fitr — the festival of breaking the fast

Eid ul Fitr arrives on the 1st of Shawwal, immediately after Ramadan. It is a celebration of having completed a month of fasting. Its signature obligation is Zakat al-Fitr, a charity given before the Eid prayer so that the poor can also celebrate. It is often called the "sweet Eid" for the desserts traditionally shared.

Eid ul Adha — the festival of sacrifice

Eid ul Adha falls on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, at the climax of the Hajj pilgrimage and the day after the Day of Arafah. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. Its signature act is Qurbani — the sacrifice of an animal whose meat is shared with family, neighbours and especially the poor. Because of the Qurbani, it is widely known as "Bakra Eid."

What they share

Both Eids begin with a special congregational Eid prayer (two rak'ahs with extra takbeers), both are occasions for new clothes, family gatherings and the greeting "Eid Mubarak," and both are rooted in gratitude to Allah and generosity to the needy.

Which Eid is the Qurbani Eid?

Qurbani belongs to Eid ul Adha. The sacrifice is performed on the day of Eid and the three following days of Tashreeq, and the meat is distributed to those in need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Eid ul Adha and Eid ul Fitr? Eid ul Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and centres on Zakat al-Fitr, while Eid ul Adha marks the completion of Hajj and the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim, centring on Qurbani.

Which Eid is bigger? Eid ul Adha is often called "Bari Eid" (the greater Eid) because it coincides with Hajj and lasts longer, though both are equally beloved occasions.

Which Eid has the Qurbani? Qurbani is performed on Eid ul Adha (10–13 Dhul Hijjah), not on Eid ul Fitr.

When are the two Eids in 2026? Eid ul Fitr fell around 20 March 2026, and Eid ul Adha is expected on 27 May 2026, subject to the moon sighting.

This Eid ul Adha, share the joy with a family in need. Give your Qurbani 2026 through HBSMWA — 100% donation policy, with photo proof of every distribution.