Any Lebanese who grew up in Lebanon can relate to the cultural traditions connected with Eid Al-Adha.
Eid Al-Adha is a traditional yearly holiday celebrated in Islam, reflecting sacrifice, strong sacred beliefs, and the sharing of kindness.
In Lebanon, Eid Al-Adha is celebrated by the Muslim communities in their religious traditions, yet communities of all faiths participate in the exchange of greetings and wishes and attend Eid social events.
In a country that takes pride in its coexistence of 18 religious sects, this occasion, like the other traditional religious ones of the different communities, brings a festive mood that is felt across Lebanon.
Eid is also an occasion that blesses people with a time to temporarily forget their burdens and hardships as they lose themselves in their written and unwritten cultural traditions.
Prayers
Eid prayer services are attended by Muslims, highlighting the Islamic history and importance of this Eid, which is inspired by an Islamic sacrifice.
Maamoul and Kaak
It isn’t really Eid if your grandmother and the entire neighborhood aren’t molding and stuffing maamoul and… you not daring to step foot in the kitchen because they will trap you in there and put you to work.
Visiting all your relatives
This is the time you reunite with your favorite cousins and get introduced to relatives you never even knew you had. Nonetheless, love is always there.
New Clothes
This one is a classic! All people in general, and kids in specific, tend to wear new clothes on the day of Eid. It is actually an Islamic tradition to wear new clothes for the holy feast.
Delicious feasts
Families and friends gather to celebrate Eid around festive meals, some of which would have been under preparation for days.
Eid Money
This is yet another tradition that is adored by children, called “Eideye,” derived from the word Eid, where money is offered (especially for kids) as a symbol of giving and kindness.
Sacrificing an animal
Vegans aren’t big on this. However, this is also inspired by the actual Islamic story leading to Eid, emphasizing sacrifice.
Diaspora coming home to their families
It is a time for the diaspora to come back home to celebrate with their families.
Beirut’s airport has been even busier as a bee hive this week, with Lebanese coming back to celebrate Eid with their loved ones, surrounded by people on the streets that may be strangers but remain familiar.
