Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Muslims fast from dawn to sunset each day as an act of worship and reflection. For 2026, the crescent moon is expected on the evening of February 17, 2026. Therefore, most communities will begin Ramadan the evening of February 17, and the first fast will fall on February 18, 2026. If the new moon is not visible locally on February 17, communities will start a day later, making February 19, 2026 the first fasting day.
How lunar dating decides the start
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle. Communities use one of two common approaches: local moon sighting or astronomical calculation. Consequently, start dates can differ by country or by community. A local sighting is a confirmed visual sighting of the new crescent after sunset. Calculation uses astronomical data to determine the crescent’s visibility in advance. Both methods remain valid across different Muslim communities. Therefore, check your local mosque or community authority for the confirmed start.
Expected calendar for 2026 (practical)
Crescent expected: evening of Feb 17, 2026.
Possible first fasting day: Feb 18, 2026 (if local sighting occurs).
Alternate first fasting day: Feb 19, 2026 (if no sighting).
Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days. Consequently, Eid-al-Fitr will fall approximately 29–30 days after the confirmed start.
Religious fundamentals to remember
Fasting (sawm) requires abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and intimate relations from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). Intention (niyyah) matters: one should intend to fast each day or for the month. Exemptions exist for the sick, travellers, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and others with valid reasons. Those who miss fasts for valid reasons must make them up or follow prescribed fidya (compensation) rules if they cannot fast later.
Practical daily routine
Pre-dawn meal (suhoor): eat nutrient-dense foods with slow-release carbs and protein.
Fajr prayer follows suhoor; begin the daily fast at dawn.
During the day: stay hydrated before dawn, avoid heavy physical exertion, and plan focused work.
Breaking fast (iftar): break with dates and water or a light drink, then perform Maghrib prayer, then eat a balanced meal.
Night prayers (Taraweeh): many attend mosque or pray at home; Taraweeh often follows Isha prayer.
Health and work tips
If you have a chronic illness, consult your physician before fasting. Plan medication schedules around suhoor and iftar, where medically safe. At work, communicate schedules with employers; request flexible hours or short breaks if needed. Stay hydrated between iftar and suhoor. Favor complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables to maintain steady energy. Avoid heavy fried foods late at night; they cause fatigue the next day.
Community and charity
Ramadan emphasizes charity (zakat and voluntary giving). Many communities increase food drives and assistance programs. Volunteer opportunities rise; consider donating time or money to trusted local charities. Mosques publish local programs and Iftar gatherings; check community announcements for timings and volunteer needs.
Eid-al-Fitr timing and checklist
Eid al-Fitr begins when the new crescent appears after Ramadan ends. If Ramadan starts on Feb 18, expect Eid roughly on March 19 or 20, 2026, depending on whether Ramadan is 29 or 30 days. Prepare zakat al-fitr before Eid prayer, plan family visits, and confirm Eid prayer times with your local mosque.
Final practical checklist
Confirm the local moon-sighting announcement. Adjust sleep and work schedules for suhoor and Taraweeh. Plan medically if you take daily prescriptions. Prepare balanced suhoor and iftar meal plans. Arrange charity or community contributions.
Closing note
Ramadan combines spiritual focus with daily routine changes. With exact dates confirmed by local sightings, you can plan worship, health, work, and community activities confidently. If you want, I can create a one-week meal plan, a prayer-time checklist for your city, or a short FAQ leaflet for your mosque.
