Kenyans will enjoy an extended weekend this June as the government has declared Friday, June 6, 2025, a public holiday to mark Eid-al-Adha, the second-holiest festival in Islam.

The announcement was made through a special gazette notice signed by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, in accordance with 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 reads in part.

Eid-al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. It commemorates the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who demonstrated his unwavering faith by being willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) in submission to God. According to Islamic belief, God intervened and provided a ram as a substitute at the last moment.

Why Eid-al-Adha Matters

Eid-al-Adha is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu-al-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The day is determined by the sighting of the moon and coincides with the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca—an important pillar of Islam.

As part of the tradition, Muslims across the country will participate in the symbolic act of Qurbani (sacrifice), slaughtering a goat, sheep, cow, or camel and distributing the meat—especially to the needy. This reflects values of generosity, charity, and devotion.

Eid-al-Adha follows Eid-ul-Fitr, which earlier this year was celebrated on Monday, March 31, marking the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

While the duration of the Eid-al-Adha celebrations can vary from two to four days depending on the country, the central acts include communal prayers, family gatherings, and acts of service to the less fortunate.

With the public holiday officially gazetted, Kenyans—particularly the Muslim community—can prepare to observe this spiritually significant day with reflection, prayer, and generosity.