Eid festival in Munich: celebration or political maneuver?

Eid festival in Munich: celebration or political maneuver?

In a few days, the Luitpoldpark in Munich will be the scene of an important celebration: on June 9, 2025, the event “Munich celebrates Eid ’25” will take place there. Previously, the event was originally scheduled for June 8th but was postponed due to adverse weather forecasts. Any prejudices aside: It's about a celebration of the Islamic festival of sacrifice, Eid al-Adha, which has great significance for Muslims.

This celebration is organized by the Muslimrat München e.V., which emphasizes that the celebration is open to all Munich residents, regardless of whether they are Muslim or non-Muslim. This underlines the motto of Eid al-Adha, which stands for mercy, community and solidarity. The roots of this festival go back to the story of Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son, but was eventually spared by Allah by sacrificing an animal in his place.

Background and meaning of Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of the last month of the Islamic calendar, Dhul-Hijja, and marks the culmination of the important Hajj pilgrimage. This year, Hajj begins on June 4, and millions of Muslims worldwide are drawing new strength and spirituality from the experience. The pilgrimage and the festival of sacrifice symbolize devotion, obedience and trust in Allah. Muslims who do not travel for Hajj celebrate reverently in community through a special prayer followed by a sacrificial ritual.

A central part of this ritual is the division of the sacrificial animal: a third of the meat is shared within the family, another third goes to friends and neighbors, and a third is donated to poor people. This tradition promotes gratitude and a sense of belonging within the community. At the same time, Eid al-Adha is a time for reflection on the personal relationship with Allah and awareness of equality and brotherhood in Islam.

Criticism and challenges

Despite the festive anticipation, there are also critical voices. A specialist information center warns that Islamist actors could use the event to present themselves as legitimate representatives of the Muslim community. It is particularly important to note that various groups, including the Islamic Center Munich (IZM), appear in the promotional video for the event. The IZM is included in the Bavarian Office for the Protection of the Constitution and has connections to the controversial Muslim Brotherhood. Critics express concerns that radical movements could try to position themselves at the center of society.

The Al-Ahibba Mosque, which also appears in the video, has strong connections to Islamist circles. In addition, some people wonder about the role of influencers who appear in the advertising films and express sympathy for radical preachers. It remains to be seen how these aspects will affect public perception of the festival.

Amid all these discussions, the Muslim Council's appeal remains to focus on the positive values ​​of Eid al-Adha: a celebration of community and humanity. Those responsible hope that many Munich residents will take the opportunity to find out about the festival and the values ​​behind it and to celebrate together.

Eid al-Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice,” interwoven with the deep spiritual experience of Hajj, symbolizes not only a religious commitment, but also the striving for humanity and cohesion in our society.