Dates and times change according to the sighting of the full moon. Throughout the year the Maldivians celebrate several festivals, with the main events being: January Festivals
Eid Ul Al Haa: is celebrated by those who are not on pilgrimage to the holy Ka’aba in Mecca. The festival lasts for a week and preparations to enjoy the festivities begin more than a month in advance. Eid Ul Al Haa is celebrated with music, dance, traditional and modern games, and sporting events. April Festivals
Prophet’s Birthday: is celebrated by reciting special prayers and inviting relatives and loved ones for a meal consisting of special dishes. July Festivals
Independence Day: in Male is a huge celebration held at the Republic Square. The National Security Service and the National Cadet Corps march past the square attired in full ceremonial uniform. There are displays of drills and traditional dances followed by a parade of colourful floats and processions of school children waving flags, dancing and singing. Kuda Eid or Fithru Eid (Lesser Festival): the firing of a canon and announcements via the media proclaim the end of the Muslim fasting period and the beginning of the Lesser Festival. After a festive lunch, people gather in the main streets of Male to watch the bands and colourful marching parades. In the rural islands traditional sports, dancing, singing and traditional music are the highlights. November Festivals
Republic Day: is celebrated with parades and marches to mark the second time that Maldives became a Republic. Special prayers are held and the pilgrims welcomed with a feast. Eid games are held and on some islands it is customary to splash people with water. | 
