
Nope, it’s still not the Islamic new year. Here’s what you need to know about Hari Raya Haji in Singapore – from its significance to what takes place on the actual day.
Hari Raya Puasa may be over, but there’s another Muslim festival taking place in Singapore later this month. Hari Raya Haji, also known as Hari Raya Aidiladha, will be celebrated on 29 June 2023. Confused? Don’t be – let us break down the day’s significance, why Muslims observe it, and what takes place on the day itself.
The 411 on Hari Raya Haji in Singapore
Hari Raya Haji, or Eid Al-Adha, is the second major Muslim festival celebrated globally. Eid Al-Adha stands for “Feast of the Sacrifice”, referencing the story of Prophet Ibrahim, who’s ordered to sacrifice his son, Ismail. The day also marks the end of Hajj, an annual pilgrimage Muslims are encouraged to perform at least once.

What do we need to know about the celebration?
This four-day festival falls on the 10th day of Zulhijjah, the 12th month in the Islamic calendar. By this time, Muslims who can afford to would have completed their Hajj pilgrimage. The journey involves performing several rituals, which include circling the Ka’abah, a building in the middle of the Great Mosque of Mecca. The Ka’abah is regarded as Islam’s most sacred site.
Why is the pilgrimage only encouraged instead of mandatory? Well, it’s an expensive trip, and you’ll have to wait years before you know if you can perform the Hajj.
When does it take place?
Similar to Hari Raya Puasa, the date for Hari Raya Aidiladha depends on the sighting of the new moon. As the Islamic calendar is shorter compared to the Gregorian calendar, the Muslim celebration differs each year. Fun fact: some years, Hari Raya Haji can occur twice a year. The last time this happened in Singapore was in 2007.

Is that all to the origin story?
Well, here’s a deep dive: Ibrahim kept having nightmares about killing his beloved son, which he eventually learned was a command by God. While the prophet was preparing for the slaughter, the devil tried to dissuade him from carrying out the commandment – but failed spectacularly. Just before Ibrahim could execute the order, God acknowledged his faith and devotion, and offered a lamb to take Ismail’s place.
How does sacrifice play a part in the celebration since then?
To commemorate the event, korban (Islamic ritual sacrifice) takes place. It involves slaughtering an animal – usually a sheep or goat. The animal is then cleaned up before being divided into three equal parts. The meat is distributed to the ones performing the sacrifice, friends and neighbours, and those in need. This ritual reminds Muslims to share their wealth with the less fortunate.
Just so you know, the animals are not being tortured! Korban ensures their deaths are humanely carried out. A sharp knife cuts the two jugular veins, leading to a quick and painless end.

Where does the slaughter take place?
Before the pandemic, the ritual is done at mosques in Singapore. Nowadays, korban is conducted overseas, in countries such as Australia, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. You’ll receive a certificate and photos after the slaughter.
What else is done during Hari Raya Haji?
This isn’t mandatory, but Muslims can choose to fast on the eve of the celebration. They’ll head to the mosque the following morning to perform prayers and listen to the sermon. From there, they can visit family and friends or chill out at home. There’ll still be a festive food spread, but the general mood is not as merry as Hari Raya Puasa.
What greeting should be used for this occasion?
Just like Hari Raya Aidilfitri, wishing your Muslim friends “Selamat Hari Raya” suffices. If you want to be specific, you can say “Selamat Hari Raya Haji” or “Selamat Hari Raya Aidiladha”. And no, it’s still not the Islamic new year celebration.
We hope this guide has shed some light on Hari Raya Haji celebrations in Singapore.