As salam `alaykum wa rahmatullah. I was wondering if it was permissible to celebrate wedding anniversaries in Islam? I had always thought that it was not permissible to celebrate them. However, after marriage, our relatives want to throw us a party on our wedding anniversary. If, indeed, it is impermissible then what would be the best way of relaying it to our relatives? If it is permissible, are there any limitations on how the celebration should unfold? Jazakum Allahu khairaa.

All praise be to Allah, and may His peace and blessings be on the last and best prophet and messenger, Muhammad.

Personal annual celebrations are controversial. These would be like birthdays and wedding anniversaries. They are in a way competing with the two Islamic feasts of Fitr and Adha and in a way different, since they are not public celebrations. There is also some concern expressed by some scholars about them being an imitation of non-Muslims. However, the imitation that is forbidden is when one imitates non-Muslims concerning their religious practices or practices specific to particular religious groups. Based on that, even if I personally like to avoid such celebrations because they are not part of our heritage, I find no substantial basis to say it is haram to celebrate them.

If you decided to celebrate your wedding anniversaries with your wife, I would advise observing all of the Islamic rules and sensibilities and avoiding any violations of Sharia, particularly when it comes to improper mixing of sexes and improper forms of entertainment.

Allah knows best.