Prophet's Birthday in United Kingdom

Eid Milad ul-Nabi (Mawlid, Milad-un-Nabi) is an occasion to celebrate the life of the Prophet Muhammad. It falls on the 12th or 17th day of the Islamic month of Rabi' al-awwal. Some Muslims in the United Kingdom mark this occasion by fasting or with special prayers or conferences.

Eid Milad ul-Nabi celebrations are held in mosques or conference centers in some parts of the United Kingdom.

©iStockphoto.com/Edward Shaw

What do people do?

Many Muslims in the United Kingdom may fast during daylight hours, say special prayers or eat a communal meal. Eid Milad ul-Nabi celebrations are held in large mosques or conference centers in many towns and cities with a substantial Muslim population. These include:

• Blackburn.
• Glasgow.
• Halifax.
• Leeds.
• Leicester.
• London.
• Nelson.
• Oldham.
• Sheffield.

Other communities organize coaches to enable their members to attend these events. The celebrations generally consist of lectures, speeches, poems and spiritual songs on the life of Mohammad and the Islamic lifestyle. Some events concentrate on telling the story of Mohammad's life to young children, as well as organizing for children to tell the stories. Street parades may be organized and some of the celebrations may be held outdoors. Activities may last for a week or even the whole month of Rabi' al-awwal in some communities.

Many Muslims see Eid Milad ul-Nabi as an important time to learn about and reflect on Muhammad’s life. The lectures and speeches are often recorded and published as podcasts. Some communities broadcast the celebrations live via radio or Internet to so people can hear or watch them at home.  Authors often launch books or pamphlets on Islam. Many celebrations include stalls selling Islamic books, leaflets, clothing, prayer mats and other materials.

Public life

Eid Milad ul-Nabi is not a public holiday in the United Kingdom. However, some Muslim businesses and organizations may be closed for part or all of the day or offer a reduced level of service. Parades may cause some local disruption to traffic.

About Prophet's Birthday in other countries

Prophet's Birthday Observances

Other holidays in January 2013 in United Kingdom

• New Year's Day ―Tuesday, January 1, 2013
• 2nd January ―Wednesday, January 2, 2013
• Epiphany ―Sunday, January 6, 2013
• Orthodox Christmas Day ―Monday, January 7, 2013
• Orthodox New Year ―Monday, January 14, 2013
• Burns' Night ―Friday, January 25, 2013
• Tu B'Shevat (Arbor Day) ―Saturday, January 26, 2013