In Yemen’s rural areas, Eid al-Adha is marked by a series of cherished traditions that foster joy and community spirit, even as the country continues to grapple with the hardships of a war that has dragged on for nearly a decade.
Celebrations begin in the early hours of the first day of Eid, when families gather for prayers, often in open spaces away from village centers. In some areas, the absence of suitable prayer grounds leads many to perform the Eid prayer in mosques instead.
Children and adults alike wear new clothes for the occasion, with excitement and joy clearly visible on their faces as they take part in the prayers held in public squares.
Traditional dance and chanted verses
Generations in Yemen’s rural areas have preserved rich cultural traditions, including the use of local percussion instruments known as the tasa and marfa’.
The tasa is a brass vessel covered with leather, producing a resonant tone, while the marfa’ is a deep-toned drum. These instruments accompany the traditional men’s dance called al-bara’, with rhythms that vary from one region to another.
These performances are an authentic expression of the festive spirit and an essential part of maintaining joy during the holiday.
The drumming typically begins immediately after the Eid prayers, especially in mountain villages where prayers are held outdoors. Another hallmark of the celebrations is the performance of zawamil — chanted poetic verses sung in unison. Performers often cup one or both hands over their ears to amplify their voices during these communal renditions.
Sacrificial rites and reconciliation
Following the prayers, Yemenis in rural areas exchange handshakes and embraces, even among those who have had disputes — a gesture underscoring the importance of reconciliation and peace, at least temporarily, during the Eid holiday.
Nearly all rural households partake in the ritual slaughter of livestock, typically sheep or cattle. The meat is then distributed over several days. Without access to refrigeration, families salt and hang the meat to preserve it.
For many, Eid al-Adha is one of the rare occasions when they can enjoy meat, reflecting the widespread poverty faced by many families.
Weddings and social visits
Eid al-Adha has also become a traditional time for weddings in Yemen’s rural communities. Many return to their villages a few days before Eid, or on the day itself, to take part in these gatherings.
Dozens of young couples are married during the extended Eid celebrations, which can last up to ten days. Wedding guests customarily offer cash gifts to the bride and groom as a sign of support.
Families of the groom host feasts based on their financial means, with some slaughtering one or more bulls, while others serve lamb or mutton. The meals — often accompanied by rice and other local dishes — are shared with guests. Festivities are enhanced by fireworks, drumming, and the chanting of zawamil.
Visiting relatives
Family visits remain a central part of Eid traditions in Yemen’s villages, helping to strengthen family ties.
It is customary during these visits for men to give small sums of money to female relatives, such as sisters, aunts, and maternal aunts — a practice that reinforces social solidarity.
Despite the ongoing celebrations, rural Yemen continues to struggle with a severe lack of basic services, including electricity, clean water, and proper roads. Yet, these difficult realities have not diminished the determination of rural Yemenis to preserve their traditions and celebrate life where they can.
