More than a thousand people gathered at a town promenade for one of the biggest religious holidays in Islam.

Yesterday, members of Gravesend Central Mosque and Shah Jalal Mosque celebrated in their best attire with gifts and prayers for Eid ul-Adha.

Chairman of Gravesend and Dartford Muslim Association, Bilal Farooq, said: “Eid-ul-Adha is all about commemorating Prophet Ibrahim's (or Abraham's) incredible faith and obedience.

“It's observed on the 10th day of the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Dhu al-Hijjah, right after the Hajj, which is our annual pilgrimage to Mecca.”

The day is celebrated to honour the prophet Abraham’s unconditional surrender to God and his readiness to sacrifice his own child.

Traditional celebrations begin with a morning prayers known as Eid Salaah which the local congregation performed at the Riverside Front, Gravesend.

Bilal, who is also the chairman of the Gravesend Central Mosque commitee, said: “Eid in the Park really showcases the unity, generosity, and faith that defines not just Eid-ul-Adha, but our community as a whole.”

“Our community extends far beyond the walls of our Masjid [mosque]. It's in gatherings like this, and in our collective support and commitment to each other which shows how much it has grown.”

In keeping with customs, after prayers an animal is sacrified to symbolise Abraham’s own sacrifice for Allah.

Today, this act, called Qurbani is typically carried out by a butcher and is then shared out.

“For us in the community, Eid-ul-Adha is a time to reflect, show devotion, and renew our commitment to our faith,” he added.

“It's all about celebrating values like sacrifice, selflessness, and obeying divine will. It's also a big reminder for us to help out those less fortunate than us.”

The rest of day is spent celebrating with family, friends and loved ones.