What is the recommended time for attending the Eid prayer?
Chapter on the Two Eid Prayers
Al-Mughni
Book of Friday Prayer
Primary text
It is recommended for individuals to arrive early for the Eid prayer after the dawn prayer (Salat al-Subh). This early arrival secures the reward for hastening and waiting for the prayer, provided it is done without stepping over the necks of people or causing harm to anyone. Evidence for the general congregation's early attendance is established by the practice of the Prophet, peace be upon him, who would go out to the prayer ground, and the first thing he would begin with was the prayer, as narrated by Muslim via Abu Sa'id.
Supporting text
The Imam, however, should delay his arrival until the time of the prayer, following the established Sunnah, as he is expected by the congregation and does not need to hasten. If the Imam arrives and sits in a place concealed from the people, there is no issue. Malik stated that the Sunnah is for the Imam to leave his house only when the time for prayer has arrived at the prayer ground.