The government has officially declared Wednesday, May 27th, 2026, a public holiday to mark Eid al-Adha, the Islamic festival of sacrifice.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen made the announcement in a gazette notice dated May 25th, 2026. The declaration was made under the authority granted by Section 3(1) of the Public Holidays Act.
The notice states: “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.”
Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command. According to Islamic tradition, Allah accepted his devotion and replaced his son with a ram for sacrifice. The event is regarded as a symbol of obedience, sacrifice, and unwavering faith.
The Islamic Relief Organisation notes that the act represents a profound demonstration of submission to divine will. Prophet Ibrahim’s steadfastness under trial is central to the meaning of the festival and continues to shape how Muslims observe the occasion today.
Muslims across Kenya will mark the day with congregational prayers followed by Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of livestock. The meat is typically divided into three portions: one for the household, one for relatives and friends, and one for distribution to the poor and needy.
The sacrifice is usually performed using a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, and takes place after the Eid prayer on the first day of the festival. Beyond the ritual, the day is observed as a time for reflection, charity, and family gatherings.
Eid al-Adha 2026 will begin on May 27th, subject to the official moon sighting. The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are expected to start around May 18th, 2026. The 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, known as the Day of Arafah, falls on May 26th, 2026, and the 10th day marks Eid al-Adha on May 27th, 2026.
The midweek holiday will affect government offices, schools, and the Nairobi Securities Exchange, with essential services continuing on a limited schedule. Businesses and financial institutions have been advised to plan for settlement and transaction delays around the holiday.
