Ramadan
Observe the holy month of Ramadan! Muslims worldwide fast from dawn to sunset, focusing on prayer, reflection, and community. Ramadan celebrates the first revelation of the Quran and emphasizes compassion, charity, and spiritual growth.
About Ramadan
Observe the holy month of Ramadan! Muslims worldwide fast from dawn to sunset, focusing on prayer, reflection, and community. Ramadan celebrates the first revelation of the Quran and emphasizes compassion, charity, and spiritual growth.
History & origins
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and the holiest month for Muslims worldwide. Its religious significance comes from the belief that the first revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad began during Ramadan, around 610 CE, though the exact night is not known. The observance is rooted in early Islamic practice and is now central across Muslim communities in the Middle East, South Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Why it matters
Ramadan shapes daily life for millions of people through fasting from dawn to sunset, extra prayer, charity, and shared meals like iftar. It also has a social and economic impact, bringing families and communities together while influencing work schedules, school routines, travel, food demand, and charitable giving.
How to celebrate
If Muslim, observe fasting and increased prayer. Break fast (iftar) with family. Give to charity (zakat). Read the Quran. Support Muslim communities. Learn about Islamic traditions respectfully. Wish Muslims 'Ramadan Mubarak'.
Facts
- Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar
- Muslims fast from dawn to sunset for 29-30 days
- It's one of the Five Pillars of Islam
- Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power) is the holiest night
- Ends with Eid al-Fitr, a joyous celebration
Upcoming dates
- Wednesday, February 18, 2026
- Thursday, February 18, 2027
- Friday, February 18, 2028
- Sunday, February 18, 2029
- Monday, February 18, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is Ramadan in 2026?
Ramadan in 2026 is expected to begin around February 18, 2026, and end around March 19 or 20, 2026, depending on moon sighting. The exact dates can vary by country and local religious authorities.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the Islamic holy month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity. During this month, most adult Muslims fast from dawn to sunset and focus on spiritual discipline.
Who started Ramadan?
No single person started Ramadan; it is part of Islam itself. Its religious foundation comes from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, with fasting in Ramadan established as one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
How do you celebrate Ramadan?
Ramadan is observed through fasting, increased prayer, Quran recitation, charity, and breaking the fast with iftar. Many families also gather for community meals and prepare for Eid al-Fitr at the end of the month.
Is Ramadan the same as Eid al-Fitr?
No, Ramadan is the month of fasting, while Eid al-Fitr is the celebration that marks its end. Eid begins after Ramadan concludes and is a time of prayer, feasting, and giving.
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