On the picturesque banks of the River Rhine, the German-Sudanese Association | Rhein-Main organized the Eid al-Adha 1444 (2023) celebration, attended by a large number of Sudanese community members in the Rhein-Main region. Nearly every member of the community makes it a point not to miss this annual gathering, as celebrating religious holidays abroad can be spiritually and emotionally challenging—especially Eid al-Adha, known in Sudan as al-Eid al-Kabir (“the big feast”) for its profound significance.
Thoughtful Planning and a Perfect Venue
After careful preparation, the Social Office chose Grillhütte Maaraue—translated as “Barbecue Hut”—an open-air venue in Mainz with spacious green areas, dedicated barbecue facilities, and stunning views of the Rhine. It proved to be the ideal setting for a family-friendly event.
From the early morning, members of the Social Office were on-site arranging the final details, setting up elegant tents topped with the Sudanese flag, and furnishing the space with tables, chairs, and festive decorations. Meanwhile, another team focused on preparing barbecue essentials, beverages, and ice cream.
Purely Sudanese Moments
As families from different cities arrived, the venue quickly filled with the warmth and vibrancy of Sudanese culture. Groups formed naturally—some basking in the sun and chatting, others sharing in faith and camaraderie, while many gathered around the barbecues to prepare Sudanese grilled dishes with their rich and familiar accompaniments.
Beyond the Barbecue
The event was far more than just food and fellowship. It was a day filled with engaging activities. Children, in particular, enjoyed fun competitions cheered on by their families. Later, the soulful sounds of the oud and a Sudanese singer transformed the atmosphere into an authentic Sudanese gathering. As the day drew to a close, everyone shared Moroccan tea, which, paired with Sudanese songs, created a spiritual journey that brought participants emotionally closer to home.
More Than Just a Day
This Eid celebration is part of the wider calendar of the Social Office of the German-Sudanese Association | Rhein-Main, which organizes diverse activities year-round.
Dr. Wafaa Abdelazim, Head of the Social Office, reflected:
“It was a wonderful and well-organized day, but what matters most is the lasting impact. Celebrating Eid al-Adha goes beyond a single event—it is a beautiful reminder that living abroad does not mean being spiritually distant from Sudan’s cherished traditions. We can celebrate them here too, and the heart finds its home wherever loved ones gather.”
Eid al-Adha in Germany … Without an Association
In Germany, everyday life and professional obligations make Eid a very different experience compared to Islamic countries. Since Eid is not a public holiday, Muslim families often struggle to align their work or school schedules with the day of celebration. Prayer is performed in mosques or large rented spaces, and home slaughter of livestock is prohibited by law. As a result, many opt to donate the cost of the sacrifice to Islamic charities abroad.
While halal restaurants and shops see increased activity, the communal spirit of Eid in Sudan and other Islamic nations is largely absent. For many, the day is reduced to a religious ritual, with much of the celebratory atmosphere lost in the routine of everyday life.
