Tobaski Day (Eid Al-Adha) - Sacrificial Feast
Date: 
*Monday 17th June, 2024
(Tentative) See also HERE |
*Dates can be variable according to observation
of the moon's crescent.
 The
public holiday is also known as Tabaski or Eid Al-Adha when families
throughout the Gambia ritually slaughter mostly sheep in ritual
sacrifice. The occasion of Tabaski is in commemoration of Abrahams
willingness to sacrifice his own son, Ismail, in the name of Allah.
It coincides with the end of the annual Hajj (pilgrimage) to Mecca.
Every married man or head of household is expected to buy a sheep
or other suitable animal such as a cow, goat or even chicken if
they can. When sacrificing the animal a sharp knife should be
used and Allah's name is spoken. After the animal is slaughtered
large portions of the meat should be given to the needy so that
nobody misses out on the celebrations to follow. The rest of the
meat is given as gifts to friends and relatives and the rest is
reserved for the family. Indeed, the idea of sharing (about 2/3
of the animal) is the essence of feast.
What follows is essentially one nationwide massive barbecue and
celebrations throughout the day. Gambians should wear their finest
clothes and if possible brand new. You are also expected to do
a thorough spring clean throughout your compound. You are expected
at sometime during the day to visit your parents, other family
members and friends.
On Tobaski day one will often see Gambian kids asking for pocket
money from family and neighbours which
they use to buy ice cream and other goodies. At this time Kairaba
Avenue is jam packed full of kids crowding round anywhere
that sells ice cream or cakes. They are also allowed out late
by many parents as long as they are accompanied by an older child.
Note: No guarantees are given as to the accuracy of the dates
above.
* Dates may vary as in various countries Eid Al Adha depends on
moon sightings.
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