Muslims celebrate Corban Festival in Beijing

By Li Hao, Published: 2016-09-12 15:50:08

Muslims attend a prayer service at the Niujie Mosque in Beijing on September 12. Photo: Li Hao/GT

Editor's Note:

September 12 marks the beginning of this year’s three-day Corban Festival, also known as Eid al-Adha or the Festival of Sacrifice. Muslims hold religious rites, slaughter livestock, and visit relatives and friends during this important Islamic festival.

Photo: Li Hao/GT

A Muslim takes a selfie at the Niujie Mosque in Beijing on September 12. Photo: Li Hao/GT

Muslims purify their bodies before attending a prayer service at the Niujie Mosque in Beijing on September 12. Photo: Li Hao/GT

Sheep are prepared for slaughter as part of the Corban Festival celebrations. Photo: Li Hao/GT

Cattle are prepared for slaughter as part of the Corban Festival celebrations. After the prayer service, the meat from the slaughtered animals will be given to friends, family and those in need. Photo: Li Hao/GT

Photo: Li Hao/GT

Muslims from Malaysia take a group photo at the Niujie Mosque in Beijing on September 12. Photo: Li Hao/GT

Security guards and police officers maintain order at the Niujie Mosque in Beijing on September 12. Photo: Li Hao/GT