What is the ruling on slaughtering animals on 'Id al-Fitr?

Question : The questioner says: Honorable Shaykh, there are customs in our area on 'Id al-Fitr, such as slaughtering animals. What is the ruling on slaughtering animals on 'Id al-Fitr, and what is the Shari'ah's view of this custom? Also, please mention what should be done on the day of the 'Id.

Answer : What should be done on the day of the 'Id is the takbir before the prayer, starting from the setting of the sun on the night of 'Id al-Fitr. One should say the takbir and raise his voice with it until the prayer is established. Also, paying the zakat al-fitr on the day of the 'Id is the best, though it is permissible to pay it one or two days before the 'Id. One may enjoy what Allah has permitted of joy and happiness on this day, for it is truly a day of joy and happiness. As for the wrongdoings that may occur in some places, such as women displaying their adornment, dancing in the markets, and going out in a way that invites fitnah (trial, discord or temptation), this is not permissible, neither on 'Id al-Fitr nor on any other day.