Tabaski

The famous festival of Tabaski, also known as Eid al Adha, is an Islamic festival commemorating the sacrifice of Abraham. At this time, the locals hold a goat or mutton feast in remembrance, and it is considered an important family festival in Niger. It usually occurs in December or January according to the Islamic calendar.

As the most famous festival in Niger, Tabaski honors the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to Allah's request. However, before Ibrahim could sacrifice his son, God provided him with a sheep that he was supposed to kill in place of his son. To commemorate this intervention, animals are ritually slaughtered. A third of their meat is consumed by the family that provides the animal, while the rest is distributed to the poor and needy. Sweets and presents are given, and family members are often visited and welcomed.

• Organization time: December or January (Islamic calendar) every year
• Location: Niger