The government has declared Wednesday, May 27, 2026, a public holiday to mark Eid al-Adha.

The Interior Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Kipchumba Murkomen, made the declaration through a Gazette notice on Monday, May 25, 2026.

In many countries, including Kenya, Eid al-Fitr is recognised as a public holiday, allowing Muslims to observe the occasion fully.

“IT IS notified for the general information of the public that, in exercise of the powers conferred by section 3 (1) of the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that, Wednesday, the 27th May, 2026, shall be a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Adha,” read the notice in full.

The declaration came shortly after Saudi authorities announced the same Eid date following confirmation of the sighting of the crescent moon.

Eid-Ul-Adha

Eid-Ul-Adha is the Festival of Sacrifice, celebrated on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. It’s the holier of the two Eids and commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command.

The name “Eid al-Adha” means “Festival of Sacrifice.” Before Allah allowed the sacrifice to proceed, He provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. This act of complete submission to Allah’s will is remembered and honored by Muslims worldwide.

On this day, those who can afford it perform Qurbani—the ritual sacrifice of an animal such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The meat is divided into three parts: one third for the family, one third for relatives and friends, and one third for those in need.

Eid al-Adha coincides with the completion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. While pilgrims perform their sacrifice in Mina, Muslims around the world join in this act of worship.