Hari Raya Haji is known as the "Festival of Sacrifice" and is celebrated by Muslims all over the world. It marks the end of the annual holy pilgrimage to Mecca. It is a time for prayer and sacrifice, where wealthier Muslims sacrifice animals (cows, sheep, goats), for donation to poorer Muslim families.
Singapore has only a 15% Muslim population, but the Sing government in its effort to honor the cultural and religious diversity of the country, recognize Hari Raya Haji as a public holiday for all Singaporeans, regardless of ethnicity/religion. They encourage all citizens to use this day to observe the practices of the Muslim community here and also to serve as a reminder to share one's wealth with the less fortunate.
Singapore has 11 public holidays, celebrating the various ethic groups which make up the country. 2 Chinese/Buddhist holidays, 2 Muslim holidays, 1 Hindu holiday, 2 Christian (Good Friday & Christmas) and 4 Singaporean holidays. Pretty interesting!
The kids have been learning a lot about Hari Raya Haji at school this week, which I think is great. Fall break officially started tonight, so the holiday falls while the kids are off of school next week.
We will celebrate the Haji by taking our own journey up to Thailand to enjoy some R&R while the kids are out of school! This is our first big trip since we've moved here, so wish us luck! Only a 2 hour flight to Phuket and splitting our 7 nights between two different locations, Phuket island and the southern mainland. Both beachy and should be fairly easy, but with a 3 year old and a 5 year old, you just never know! Should be an adventure!
Sultan Mosque Singapore
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