While these Islamic festivals, Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr, are widely observed in many nations, there are several intriguing corners of the globe where they are not recognized as public holidays.
Here are some notable countries that do not officially celebrate Eid-el-Adha/Fitr or grant public holidays for these occasions:
United Kingdom: The United Kingdom, comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, does not officially observe Eid as a public holiday.
In the UK, public holidays are commonly referred to as “bank holidays” due to the closure of banks on those days. However, Eid-Al-Adha, a significant Muslim celebration marked by feasting and sacrifice, is not recognized as a bank holiday in the UK.
While Eid may not be a nationally recognized holiday in the UK, it remains an important occasion for Muslims across the country, who gather for prayers, engage in charitable acts, and enjoy festive meals with family and friends.
- United States: While Muslims are allowed to celebrate Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr, it is not recognised as a public holiday. Muslims across the country are, however, permitted to gather for prayers and participate in acts of generosity. They also come together with their loved ones to savor delicious meals and revel in the festive atmosphere.
- Russia: Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr are not recognized as official public holidays in Russia. The country has a diverse religious landscape, with the majority of the population adhering to Russian Orthodox Christianity.
- Australia: While Australia has a significant Muslim population, Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr are not public holidays at the national level. However, in regions with large Muslim communities such as Sydney and Melbourne, local celebrations and cultural events take place.
- France: Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr are not officially recognized as public holidays in France. However, France is home to a considerable Muslim population, and Muslims in the country observe these festivals through private celebrations and community gatherings.
- Italy: Italy does not grant official public holidays for Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr. The country has a predominantly Christian population, with Roman Catholicism being the predominant religion.
- Canada: Although Canada has a diverse and multicultural society, Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr are not designated as national public holidays. However, they are celebrated by the Muslim community across the country through prayers, feasts, and cultural events.
- Brazil: Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr are not officially recognized as public holidays in Brazil. Brazil has a rich religious and cultural landscape, with Islam being a minority religion in the country.
- Argentina: Argentina does not have official public holidays for Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr. The country has a predominantly Roman Catholic population, and Islam is practiced by a small minority.
- South Africa: While South Africa has a significant Muslim population, Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr are not national public holidays. However, Muslims in the country celebrate these occasions within their communities and participate in festive activities.
- Netherlands: Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr do not have official public holiday status in the Netherlands. However, Muslims in the country observe these festivals through private celebrations and religious gatherings.
- Switzerland: Eid-el-Adha and Eid-el-Fitr are not recognized as public holidays in Switzerland. The country’s religious landscape is diverse, with Christianity being the predominant religion.