Eid al Adha 2018 in the USA occurred on Thursday, August 20, 2018, as determined by the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah moon and confirmed by Islamic authorities and community organizations. This festival, also called the Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated by Muslim families across the country with prayers, gatherings, and acts of charity.
Planning travel, work schedules, and community events requires knowing the precise dates of Eid al Adha observances in the United States. The following sections outline the key timing details, regional nuances, and practical information for participants and organizers in 2018.
| Event | Date (Gregorian) | Date (Islamic Hijri) | Notes for USA Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start of Dhul Hijjah | July 16, 2018 | 1 Muharram 1439 | Month of pilgrimage begins; fasting and extra prayers encouraged |
| Day of Arafah | August 19, 2018 | 9 Dhul Hijjah 1439 | Critical day for supplication; fasting highly recommended |
| Eid al Adha Date | August 20, 2018 | 10 Dhul Hijjah 1439 | Main festival day; prayers in the morning, family visits, and sacrifice |
| Days of Tashriq | August 20–22, 2018 | 10–12 Dhul Hijjah 1439 | Period when Eid prayers are followed by specific duas and permissibility of shaving |
| Last Day of Tashriq | August 22, 2018 | 12 Dhul Hijjah 1439 | End of major rituals; regular weekdays resume afterward |
Understanding Moon Sighting and Calendar Confirmation in the USA
Eid al Adha 2018 was scheduled based on the lunar Islamic calendar, with official confirmation depending on the visibility of the crescent moon in North America. Centralized committees in major cities and national organizations reviewed sightings and issued announcements.
Many communities followed geographic calculations, while others aligned with Saudi Arabia’s announcement to ensure unity in worship and avoid confusion in schools, workplaces, and community centers.
Regional Observance Differences Across the United States
Due to time zones and local moon sighting interpretations, the start of Eid al Adha 2018 could vary slightly by region. Mosques and cultural centers often coordinated announcements to reflect local sightings or followed broader national guidance.
These differences were minimal but important for individuals traveling or participating in multiple communities, ensuring they joined prayers and gatherings at the appropriate times.
Eid al Adha 2018 Prayers and Mosque Schedules
Finding Local Eid Prayer Times
Mosques across the USA published Eid prayer timetables in advance, specifying exact start times for sermons, khutbah, and the ritual prayer. Many centers opened early to accommodate large crowds and provided facilities for women’s sections and children’s activities.
Community Coordination and Space Availability
Urban areas often required advanced reservations for halls and parking, while suburban venues might coordinate with local councils for shared spaces. Organizers emphasized clear communication to avoid overcrowding and ensure smooth flow of traffic before and after prayers.
Travel, Work, and School Considerations Around Eid
Many employers and educational institutions recognized Eid al Adha as a holiday, allowing Muslim staff and students to attend prayers and family events. Travelers booking flights or intercity buses around August 20, 2018, experienced higher demand and adjusted reservations early to secure favorable options.
Government offices and some private businesses operated on reduced schedules, so participants planned errands outside peak prayer and visit times to respect community observance.
Charity, Sacrifice, and Community Outreach During Eid al Adha
Zakat al Adha and Qurbani donations played a central role in 2018, with many organizations coordinating the distribution of meat to low-income families in the USA and abroad. Individuals scheduled appointments at approved centers for animal sacrifice, following health and safety guidelines in their cities.
Community kitchens and volunteers prepared communal meals, reinforcing the values of compassion, sharing, and gratitude that define the festival.
Key Takeaways for Future Eid Planning in the USA
- Mark Eid al Adha based on official announcements, not just calendar estimates.
- Check local mosque schedules for precise prayer and sermon timings.
- Arrange travel and workplace leave well in advance of the holiday.
- Participate in charity and outreach programs to strengthen community bonds.
- Respect local observance differences when attending events in multiple regions.
FAQ
Reader questions
When was Eid al Adha 2018 celebrated in the United States?
Eid al Adha 2018 was celebrated on Thursday, August 20, 2018, in the United States.
Was Eid al Adha 2018 a public holiday in the USA?
Eid al Adha 2018 was not a federal public holiday, but many schools, universities, and some employers recognized it as a day of observance.
Did the date of Eid al Adha 2018 vary across different US cities?
The main festival day was largely unified on August 20, 2018, though some communities adjusted prayer times slightly based on local moon sighting reports.
How did Muslim communities in the USA confirm the date of Eid al Adha 2018?
Communities relied on announcements from mosques, Islamic organizations, and national committees that monitored lunar sightings and issued formal calendar confirmations.