Gov't Declares Wednesday a Public Holiday to mark Eid ul-Adha

The government of Kenya has officially declared Wednesday, May 27, 2026, a national public holiday to observe the Islamic festival ofEid-ul-Adha.

The declaration was made through a special issue of the Kenya Gazette dated May 25, 2026, by the Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.

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, shall be a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Adha," Murkomen said.

Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most important celebrations in the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide through prayers, charity, and family gatherings.

The holiday commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God before God provided a ram as a substitute.

The celebration falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar, and coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Muslims mark the day through special prayers held in mosques and open grounds early in the morning.

Families also slaughter animals such as goats, sheep, cows, or camels, with the meat shared among relatives, neighbours, and the needy as an act of charity and compassion.

Eid-ul-Adha also emphasises faith, sacrifice, generosity, and unity within the Muslim community.

In Kenya, the occasion is recognised as a public holiday, allowing Muslim faithful time to celebrate and worship with family and friends.