Eid-ul-Adha, the "Festival of Sacrifice," is the second major Islamic holiday, taking place during the Hajj season. It remembers the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) in obedience to Allah — and how Allah replaced Ismail with a ram at the last moment.
The story, told simply for kids
Prophet Ibrahim (AS) had a dream that Allah asked him to sacrifice his son. Both father and son agreed to obey, showing complete trust in Allah. Just as Ibrahim (AS) was about to carry it out, Allah stopped him and provided a ram to sacrifice instead. The story teaches obedience, trust, and that Allah rewards sincerity — even when a command feels difficult.
What is Qurbani?
In remembrance of this story, Muslims who are able to sacrifice an animal (commonly a sheep, goat, cow, or camel) do so during Eid-ul-Adha. The meat is traditionally divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for those in need — making generosity a central part of the day, not just remembrance.
Helping children understand and enjoy the day
- Explain the story in simple terms, focusing on trust and obedience rather than the details of the sacrifice itself.
- Involve children in giving — helping pack or deliver meat or food to those in need.
- Attend the Eid prayer together and talk about what Takbeer means.
- Connect the day to Hajj, even if the family isn't performing it that year, so children understand the wider season it belongs to.