4 Somali Events Celebrated Every Year

 

Somalia is a predominantly Islamic country, with 99% of the population identifying as Sunni Muslims. The yearly festivities are largely based on important religious events and are celebrated with the rest of the Muslims around the world.

Of course, Somalis put their own twist on the Islamic events that make their celebrations unique in their own way. The Somali culture is a rich mix of South Asian influences as well as traditional African elements. In this article, we’re going to be describing the major Somali events that are celebrated every year.

1. Independence Day of Somalia

Somalia celebrates its National Independence Day on 26^th June. This day marks freedom from colonial rule (British and Italian) that started in 1840 and went on until 1960. That said, the country is still not free from oppression and violence as it still faces political instability and lawlessness at the hands of clans and terrorist groups.

2. Neeroosh

Neeroosh, also called Dab-shid, is an annual celebration that marks the beginning of the solar year in the country. Even though Somalia’s religious festivals follow the lunar calendar, the solar calendar is also important for determining several things, such as harvest times, religious observances, etc. Neeroosh is globally known as the Festival of Fire, where Somalis splash water on each other, build bonfires, and do a traditional dance to welcome the summer months. This is one of the most joyously celebrated occasions of the year that shouldn’t be missed!

3. Eid al-Fitr

Every lunar year, the end of the holy month of Ramadan is marked by the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. This is a religious occasion celebrated by Muslims in recognition of everyone’s efforts and sacrifices during the Ramadan fasts. Typically, Eid al-Fitr includes wearing new clothes and attending sermons and celebrations in mosques and gatherings with family and friends.

1. Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha is celebrated on the tenth day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. It’s also known as Tabaski in the North African region and lasts for three days. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ismayeel, for the Lord. On this occasion, Muslims slaughter sheep, goats, cows, or camels to remember the historic event and then cook the meat for their friends and family.

In addition to these major events, other observances and holidays in Somalia include Ashura, Eid Milad-un-Nabi, New Year’s Eve, and more.

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