Ramadan 2026: What Muslims Can Expect — Start Date, Moon Sighting and Key Timings

Muslim communities worldwide are preparing for Ramadan 2026, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Forecasts based on astronomical calculations place the likely start in mid-February 2026 in many parts of the world, but the exact day will depend on local moon-sighting decisions and national announcements.

Projected start and end dates (Eastern Time)

Based on widely used astronomical estimates, the first day of fasting for Ramadan 2026 is likely to begin after sunset on Friday, February 13, 2026 (ET), with the first full fasting day on Saturday, February 14, 2026 (ET). If communities follow local visual moon sighting traditions, the start could shift by a day in either direction depending on observers and national religious authorities.

Ramadan runs 29 or 30 days depending on the next new moon sighting. If a full 30-day cycle occurs, Ramadan 2026 would conclude on Sunday, March 15, 2026 (ET), with Eid al-Fitr celebrated that evening and on Monday, March 16, 2026 (ET). If the month is concluded at 29 days, Eid al-Fitr would fall on Sunday, March 15, 2026 (ET).

Moon sighting, calculations and community practices

The Islamic calendar is lunar, so the start of Ramadan is traditionally declared after the sighting of the new crescent moon. Many Muslim communities now use astronomical calculations to forecast the moon’s visibility and to plan logistics, while others continue to rely on local physical sightings.

Communities that use astronomical prediction will be able to confirm dates well in advance, which helps mosques, schools and charities plan schedules for taraweeh prayers, iftar feeding programs and charity drives. Conversely, communities that depend on local sighting will issue their official announcements when local religious councils or national authorities confirm the crescent.

Because of these differing practices, it is common for the same country or city to observe Ramadan starting on different days in different communities. Those organizing large public iftars, travel plans or media programming should allow for one-day variability.

Practical preparations and key dates to note

Religious leaders advise Muslims to prepare spiritually and logistically several weeks ahead. Typical preparations include adjusting sleep and meal schedules to accommodate suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and taraweeh (night prayers), finalizing work and school arrangements, and confirming charity and community service plans.

Important dates around Ramadan 2026 to watch (all times ET):

• Likely moon sighting window: evening of Friday, February 13, 2026 (ET)
• Probable first fasting day: Saturday, February 14, 2026 (ET)
• Possible Eid al-Fitr: Sunday–Monday, March 15–16, 2026 (ET), depending on the moon sighting

Travelers and event organizers should verify local announcements closer to mid-February. Mosques and community centers often publish final confirmations within 24–48 hours of the expected new moon.

As communities prepare, many leaders will emphasize both spiritual renewal and practical support: expanded charitable distributions, community iftars for those in need, and health guidance for fasting individuals, especially those with medical conditions. Observers planning to fast for the first time or to fast while managing health issues are encouraged to consult local health professionals in advance.

Ramadan continues to be a deeply communal month balancing worship, charity and family gatherings. While astronomical forecasts provide a strong guideline for Ramadan 2026, the final public start will hinge on moon-sighting practices and local religious decisions.