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Ramadan 2026: When is Ramadan? What is Ramadan?

When does Ramadan begin each year? What is Ramadan?

Written By: Catherine Boeckmann Executive Digital Editor and Master Gardener

This year, the holy month of Ramadan begins at the first sighting of the crescent Moon on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Learn about how—and why—Ramadan is observed.

What Is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is considered a holy month that honors the time when Allah, via the angel Gabriel, revealed the first verses of the Qur’an, the holy book of Islam, to a caravan trader named Muhammad.

When Is Ramadan? 

This year, Ramadan is expected to begin at sundown on Tuesday, February 17, and end at sundown on Wednesday, March 18. The final evening of Ramadan consists of a celebration called Eid al-Fitr, when the traditional month-long fast is ended with a feast.

The exact beginning and ending times of the month of Ramadan are based on the sighting of the first crescent Moon on the last night of the eighth month (Sha’ban). Specifically, Ramadan is said to begin at the first observance of the crescent Moon over Mecca, Saudi Arabia (or on a date predetermined by astronomical calculation). Because of this, start and end dates are not set in stone and may vary by a day.

The dates listed below are based on expected visibility, so they may differ slightly from those seen elsewhere.

Ramadan Dates
YearFirst Evening of Ramadan (fasting begins at dawn next day)Final Evening of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr)
2026Tuesday, February 17Wednesday, March 18
2027Sunday, February 7Monday, March 8
2028Thursday, January 27Friday, February 25
2029Monday, January 15Tuesday, February 13

Traditions of Ramadan

Beginning at puberty, all Muslims (with certain exceptions, such as if one is ill, traveling, pregnant, elderly, etc.) take part in the month-long, dawn-to-sunset fast that is the hallmark of Ramadan. Muslims believe that fasting cleanses the body, and the practice reminds them of the suffering of the poor.

Eating and drinking (including water) is prohibited from dawn to sunset, and the day’s abstinence is offset by a predawn meal called sehri and a nightly meal known as iftar. For iftar, many traditionally break the fast by first eating dates, as the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have done to break his fast. Foods traditionally served at iftar vary, but food is often shared with a poor family during Ramadan.

At the end of the 29- or 30-day fast (depending on the length of the lunar cycle) is Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast), when there is much feasting and celebration!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Ramadan dates change every year?

Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, which is about 10–12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar. Because of this, Ramadan shifts earlier each year.

How is the start of Ramadan determined?

The beginning of Ramadan is based on the first visible crescent Moon after the month of Sha’ban. Some regions use local Moon sightings, while others follow astronomical calculations.

Who is required to fast during Ramadan?

Healthy adult Muslims are required to fast. Exceptions include those who are ill, pregnant, breastfeeding, traveling, elderly, or experiencing medical conditions.

What is the purpose of fasting during Ramadan?

Fasting is meant to promote self-discipline, spiritual reflection, gratitude, and compassion for those less fortunate.

What are sehri and iftar?

  • Sehri (or suhoor) is the pre-dawn meal before the day’s fast begins.
  • Iftar is the meal eaten after sunset to break the fast, traditionally starting with dates.

Why is the Moon important in determining Ramadan?

The Islamic calendar is lunar, so months begin with the sighting of the new crescent Moon. Ramadan and Eid both depend on this sighting.

What is Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr is the Festival of Breaking the Fast, marking the end of Ramadan with prayer, feasting, and community celebrations.

To all those who observe Ramadan, we say Ramadan mubarak (“blessed Ramadan”)!

Holidays

About The Author

Catherine Boeckmann

Catherine Boeckmann

Executive Digital Editor and Master Gardener

Catherine Boeckmann loves nature, stargazing, and gardening, so it’s not surprising that she and The Old Farmer’s Almanac found each other. She leads digital content for the Almanac website and is also a certified master gardener in the state of Indiana.

Read more from Catherine Boeckmann

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Comments

<span>Abdo</span> Mon, 07/08/2013 - 14:04
We thank Alaha for he gave us this greatest months of the years from all the 12 months! our Alaha will preparing us for blessing all the Muslim in holy Ramadan months.
<span>Twaha Yassin</span> Mon, 07/08/2013 - 13:42
Assalamu Alleikum warahumatuliliah wabarakathi My dear brothers and sisters in Islam, i wish you best of your time in this wholly month of ramadthan and thanks be to Allah for letting us reach the month. Lets pray to Him such that all our sins are forgiven since He is the great AMEEN
<span>Sahib Yusoff</span> Mon, 07/08/2013 - 12:06
Salam, "Going to your wives during the nights of the fast is made lawful for you; they are coverings for you and you are coverings for them; Allah knows that you were deceiving yourselves (in this respect), so He accepted your penance and forgave you; so cohabit with them and seek what Allah has destined for you - and eat and drink until the white thread becomes distinct to you from the black thread at dawn - then complete the fast till NIGHTFALL; and do not touch women while staying in seclusion for worship in the mosques; these are the limits imposed by Allah, so do not go near them; this is how Allah explains His verses to mankind so that they may attain piety. (2:187) Breaking fast time is at nightfall, not at sunset. See how Allah explains His verses.
<span>Faridshaibu</span> Mon, 07/08/2013 - 11:29
the blessed month of ramadan the blessed month of ramadan is aproaching, please do not forget the poor and needy in the festivities, as that is the real essence of the holy month, stay peaceful and be patient! I can see a lot of misconceptions about islam unfortunately many misguided people are misusing the religion for their own gains and agendas, we should rationally segregate right from wrong!
<span>Murshid</span> Mon, 07/08/2013 - 06:17
nice day is coming
<span>Hana</span> Sun, 06/15/2014 - 13:02
I love Ramadan when I fast I feel happy
<span>Madugu Manaf</span> Mon, 07/08/2013 - 05:23
Alhamdulillah we thank almighty allah for bringing us so far, we welcom the month of Ramadan. May allah give us strenght to be part of fasters
<span>Md Zulfiquar Ahmad</span> Mon, 07/08/2013 - 04:47
i am happy because allah give me one more year
<span>Yakubu M. Muwo</span> Mon, 07/08/2013 - 04:33
Pls broda & sist. I wnt u pple 2 inlight me abot d ramadan, i mean both gud & bad 4 it tanx.
<span>Md Yousuf Pasha</span> Mon, 07/08/2013 - 00:37
MeMay Almighty Allah cont. to have mercy on us all, coz we fail to follow and practice what we read in the "Holy Quran" onless the Holy month of Ramdan is upon us all. HASTAGGAFIRU-LAHAH!!! and my family in the all year what we wait is only for the month of Holy Ramzan,, Subahanalla, no words to wxplain the happiness of this month,,, u know why ? Allha Say my son ask what u want the r no limits for making duwa this month,,You get tired asking him But he dose not get tired Give u and blessing you,,,,