What marks the culmination of the pilgrimage to Mecca?

The culmination of the pilgrimage to Mecca, also known as Hajj, is marked by a festival called Eid al-Adha or "Festival of Sacrifice". Here are the steps of the Hajj:

1. Ihram: Pilgrims wear a special garment and set the intention to perform Hajj. This is done at a designated place called Miqat.

2. Tawaf: Pilgrims perform seven circuits around the Kaaba in the Great Mosque of Mecca.

3. Sa'ee: Pilgrims walk or run between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times.

4. Day of Arafah: Pilgrims gather at the plain of Arafah and engage in prayer. This is considered the most important part of the Hajj.

5. Muzdalifah: After sunset, pilgrims move to Muzdalifah where they spend the night and collect pebbles for the next ritual.

6. Rami al-Jamarat: Pilgrims throw the collected pebbles at three pillars, symbolizing the stoning of the devil.

7. Eid al-Adha: This festival marks the end of Hajj. Pilgrims perform a symbolic animal sacrifice, which commemorates the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim.

8. Tawaf al-Ifadah: Pilgrims perform another circuit around the Kaaba.

9. Tawaf al-Wida: This is the farewell circuit around the Kaaba, marking the end of the pilgrimage.