**Thousands Gather in Cardiff to Mark Start of Eid-ul-Adha Celebrations**
Roath Park in Cardiff was transformed into a vibrant gathering place on Friday morning, as thousands of Muslims from across south Wales assembled to commence the annual Eid-ul-Adha celebrations. The occasion, also referred to as the Feast of Sacrifice or Bakrid Eid, marks one of the most significant dates in the Islamic calendar, embodying themes of devotion, charity, and community.
Eid-ul-Adha is observed in honour of the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to obey Allah’s command by offering his son Isma’il as a sacrifice — a test of faith which culminated with divine intervention, as Allah provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. This story is central to the festival, and its message of faith and obedience resonates with Muslims globally.
The event in Cardiff reflects the unity and diversity of Wales’ Muslim population, drawing families from a multitude of backgrounds, all converging to share in collective prayer and reflection. Attendees congregated in designated areas, with men and women gathering opposite one another in accordance with common Islamic practices, fostering respect, focus, and continuity of tradition.
For many, Eid-ul-Adha is not only a time for family and spiritual renewal but also marks the conclusion of the Hajj, the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca. The Hajj is revered as the fifth pillar of Islam, a mandatory undertaking for Muslims who are physically and financially able. While the vast majority of Muslims celebrate at home, those performing Hajj in person experience powerful moments of unity at the Ka’bah, Islam’s most sacred site.
Celebrations in Cardiff began ahead of the main festival, which this year falls on Saturday and is set to continue through to 9 June. As the sun rose, the community turned out in their finest clothes to offer prayers of gratitude for their blessings. Loudspeakers carried prayers across the park as families exchanged greetings and well wishes, reinforcing a sense of togetherness.
A notable feature of Eid-ul-Adha is the tradition of animal sacrifice, symbolising the original act of obedience performed by the Prophet Ibrahim. In Britain, this religious requirement is fulfilled through regulated abattoirs, with the meat shared generously among family, friends, and those in need. Many Muslims also choose to donate to charity, ensuring that less fortunate members of the community can take part in the festivities.
The atmosphere in Roath Park was one of joy and solidarity, with multiple generations joining in the celebrations. Children played in the open spaces while adults engaged in quiet conversation or prepared to attend family gatherings. The festival offered an opportunity not just to express religious conviction, but also to strengthen communal bonds at a time of global uncertainty.
Such large-scale gatherings underscore the significance of Eid in religious and social life, highlighting Cardiff’s reputation as a multicultural and inclusive city. Local authorities and volunteers collaborated to ensure the event’s safety and accessibility for all, demonstrating the importance of public celebrations in fostering understanding and unity across communities.
As Eid-ul-Adha continues through the weekend, Muslims across Cardiff and Wales will visit relatives, extend hospitality, and carry out charitable acts. For many, the next few days will be a chance to reflect on the values of faith, family, and compassion that define this cherished festival. With events such as the one held at Roath Park, Cardiff once again demonstrates the capacity for collective celebration and respect for tradition, serving as a microcosm of multicultural Britain at its best.