Mavzu: Uzbekistan national holidays

Date changes, Eid al-Adha (Kurban Hayit) 
Eid al-Adha (Kurban Hayit) is one of the most important holidays of the 
Islamic world, for it marks the end of the pilgrimage to Mecca, known 
as Hajj. It is celebrated 70 days after the end of Eid al-Fitr. Since 1991, 
Kurban Hayit has been considered an important Uzbekistan holiday. 
As with Ramadan Hayit, preparations begin on the eve of the holiday, 
known as Arafah, as special baked goods are prepared in every Uzbek 
household. In the evening, a pre-holiday pilaf is cooked and exchanged 
with others: The rice dish is piled into a large ceramic bowl, topped with 
baked treats and delivered to friends and neighbors. 
As in other countries, Eid al-Adha in Uzbekistan begins with a special 
morning prayer known as Hayit Namaz, followed by a customary visit to 
the graves of loved ones. During the three days of Kurban Hayit, many 
families make a sacrifice, which in Uzbekistan has traditionally been a 
sheep. The meat is then divided into three parts, which are distributed 
equally between relatives, the needy and guests who have been specially 
invited for the occasion. Read more... 
September 1, Independence Day 
Independence Day was the first official holiday declared by the newly 
independent republic, and every year since then the people of 
Uzbekistan have celebrated it with full gusto. 
In each of the 12 regions of Uzbekistan, a unique holiday program is 
prepared which reflects the traditions and culture specific to that region. 
Activities include folk performances, sports competitions, special shows 
and noisy fairs filled with the colorful displays of local craftsmen. In 

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Tashkent, the main festivities are fittingly held at Mustakillik Square 
(Independence Square), where hundreds of participants, dozens of 
bands, dance troupes and pop stars are gathered for an unforgettable 
event. The evening concludes with a grandiose fireworks show. Read 
more...