The government has officially declared Wednesday, May 27, 2026, a public holiday to allow Muslims across the country to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha, one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar.
The announcement was made by Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen through a special issue of the Kenya Gazette dated May 25, 2026.
In the gazette notice, Murkomen said the holiday had been declared under powers granted by the Public Holidays Act.
“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,” the notice stated.
Eid-ul-Adha, commonly referred to as the Festival of Sacrifice, is observed by millions of Muslims around the world and is regarded as one of the holiest occasions in Islam.
The celebration commemorates the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was willing to sacrifice his son in fulfilment of God’s command before God provided a ram to be sacrificed instead.
The festival falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar, and coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.
On the day of Eid-ul-Adha, Muslims begin celebrations with special congregational prayers held in mosques and open grounds early in the morning.
The occasion is also marked by the ritual slaughter of animals such as goats, sheep, cows or camels, symbolising sacrifice and devotion.
The meat from the sacrificed animals is traditionally shared among family members, friends, neighbours and vulnerable members of society, reflecting the values of charity, compassion and community support that are central to the celebration.
Beyond the rituals, Eid-ul-Adha serves as a reminder of faith, selflessness, generosity and unity among Muslims. Families often gather for meals, exchange greetings and spend time together as they celebrate the occasion.
In Kenya, Eid-ul-Adha is recognised as a national public holiday, enabling Muslim faithful to participate fully in prayers, charitable activities and family celebrations without work-related obligations.
The declaration means that government offices, schools and many businesses across the country will remain closed on Wednesday as Muslims join the global Islamic community in commemorating the sacred festival.
