Friday, June 6 declared public holiday for Eid-Ul-Adha

The Government of Ghana has declared Friday, June 6, 2025, a statutory public holiday in observance of Eid-Ul-Adha, one of the most significant festivals on the Islamic calendar.

In a statement issued on Thursday, 29th May 2025, and signed by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, the Ministry announced: “The general public is hereby informed that Friday, June 6, 2025, marks Eid-Ul-Adha, which is a Statutory Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country.”

The announcement is in line with Ghana’s tradition of recognising major religious festivals as public holidays to allow citizens the opportunity to observe and participate in them.

Eid-Ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated by Muslims worldwide to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. The festival marks the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and is considered one of the two most important Islamic holidays, alongside Eid-Ul-Fitr.

In Ghana, Eid-Ul-Adha is marked by congregational prayers at mosques and open spaces, the ritual sacrifice of animals such as sheep, goats, or cattle, and the sharing of meat with family, neighbours, and the less privileged. The day is also characterised by acts of charity, family gatherings, and community celebrations.

The Ministry’s declaration ensures that Muslims across the country can observe the religious rites and festivities associated with the day without the demands of work or official duties.

This year’s celebration is expected to attract large congregations, particularly in major Muslim-populated areas such as Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and Wa, where religious leaders and public officials often join in prayer sessions and outreach programmes.

Security and health agencies are also likely to collaborate with religious leaders to ensure a peaceful and safe observance of the holiday.