What is the Difference Between Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha?

What is Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr means “Festival of Breaking the Fast.” It comes at the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting and increased devotion. It’s a time of gratitude, community, and celebration after 30 days of spiritual focus.

On this day, Muslims give zakat al-fitr (charity for those in need), attend special prayers, wear their best clothes, and enjoy food with family and friends. It’s a joyful occasion that reminds us of generosity and renewal.

To help kids connect with the meaning of this holiday, the book Ilyas & Duck and the Fantastic Festival of Eid-Al-Fitr is a fun and award-winning story. It follows two lovable characters as they explore the excitement of Eid while learning about the importance of giving. This is a perfect pick for children who are just starting to understand Islamic values.

Another great resource is the Eid El-Fitr Coloring Activity Book. It’s filled with festive coloring pages, mazes, word searches, and more. Designed for kids ages 4–8, it helps young learners explore the joy of Eid through creativity. And for families who place larger orders, this book is automatically included for free on orders over $35.

If you're looking for a charming read-aloud book, Aleena Celebrates Eid is a beautifully illustrated story told from a child’s point of view. It highlights what makes Eid special—from prayers and new clothes to sharing with others and visiting loved ones. It’s available as a picture book, a coloring book, or as a bundle with both.

And for families navigating multi-cultural traditions, Eid Breakfast at Abuela’s is a heartwarming story. It follows Sofia as she celebrates Eid with her Mexican grandmother. The book features words in Spanish, Arabic, and English, showing how Eid can be shared across cultures in a way that honors everyone.

What is Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, or the “Festival of Sacrifice,” occurs about two months after Eid al-Fitr. It takes place on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, right after the completion of Hajj—the pilgrimage to Makkah.

This holiday honors the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) in complete obedience to Allah. At the last moment, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram, showing that sincere submission is always rewarded.

Muslims who can afford it offer Qurbani (sacrifice of an animal), and the meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for friends or neighbors, and one for those in need. It’s a powerful time to reflect on what it means to give for the sake of Allah.

To help children understand this deeper meaning, Siraj and Eid Al-Adha Gift Box is a must-read. In this story, a young boy named Siraj learns about Hajj and Eid through the gifts his parents bring home from pilgrimage. It ties in Islamic teachings with relatable storytelling and includes “learning gems” from the Qur’an and Hadith.

Eid al-Fitr vs Eid al-Adha

If you’re still unsure how the two holidays differ, here’s a simple comparison:

Eid al-Fitr

• Celebrated at the end of Ramadan
  
  
• Focuses on gratitude, renewal, and generosity
  
  
• Includes zakat al-fitr and special Eid prayer
  
  
• Celebrated with meals, gifts, and time with loved ones
  
  

Eid al-Adha

• Celebrated during Hajj (10th of Dhul-Hijjah)
  
  
• Honors Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and sacrifice
  
  
• Includes animal sacrifice (Qurbani) and Eid prayer
  
  
• Emphasizes submission, generosity, and remembrance
  
  

Both Eids are important—but they teach different lessons. One marks the end of fasting and spiritual growth, the other commemorates a historic moment of obedience and trust in Allah.

Helping Kids Understand the Difference

Books are one of the most powerful ways to teach children about faith. When stories are told through characters, color, and creativity, the message sticks.

Reading Ilyas & Duck or Aleena Celebrates Eid before Eid al-Fitr helps kids feel the excitement of the celebration and teaches them why we give to others.

Exploring Siraj and Eid Al-Adha Gift Box during Dhul-Hijjah connects children to the meaning of Hajj, sacrifice, and spiritual strength.

Pairing stories with coloring books like the Eid El-Fitr Coloring Activity Book brings another layer of engagement, allowing kids to connect to Islamic holidays through art and play.

And if your child comes from a multi-ethnic or interfaith family, Eid Breakfast at Abuela’s is a perfect example of how Eid can still be meaningful, even when shared with non-Muslim relatives.

Why Knowing the Difference Matters

Understanding the difference between Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha isn’t just about dates or rituals. It’s about recognizing the different ways Allah gives us reasons to reflect, reset, and celebrate throughout the year.

When we teach our children about both Eids—and help them see what each one represents—we give them a richer connection to their faith. We help them build identity, purpose, and pride in being Muslim.

Let stories, celebrations, and small traditions do the work. And with books like these, you’ll have everything you need to make both Eids meaningful, fun, and unforgettable.