Ramadan 2026: When the Holy Month Is Expected to Begin and What Could Change

The Muslim holy month of fasting, Ramadan 2026, is widely expected to begin in mid-February, with communities around the world preparing for a start tied to the new moon. Astronomical calculations point to a likely start date, but traditional moon sighting practices and local religious authorities could shift the exact day for some communities.

Expected start and the role of the lunar calendar

Islamic months follow the lunar cycle, so the start of Ramadan depends on the sighting of the new crescent moon or on predetermined astronomical calculations used by some countries and communities. Current projections place the start of Ramadan 2026 in mid-February (Eastern Time), with many astronomical charts indicating the month will likely begin on the evening of February 16 or February 17, 2026. The first day of fasting would then fall on the following daylight period.

Because the lunar year is shorter than the solar year by about 10 to 11 days, Ramadan advances earlier each Gregorian year. Communities that rely on local visual moon sighting may announce the official start only after sunset observations, potentially creating variation from place to place.

Moon sighting vs. astronomical calculation: what could change

Two approaches typically determine Ramadan’s start: traditional sighting of the crescent moon and calculation-based methods that use astronomical data to predict the new moon. Some countries and communities use precise astronomical calculations to set religious calendars well in advance, while others await visual confirmation after sunset on the 29th day of Sha'ban, the month preceding Ramadan.

If observers see the new crescent on the evening of February 16 (ET), Ramadan would begin that night and the fast would start at dawn on February 17. If the crescent is not sighted, Sha'ban would be completed as a 30-day month and Ramadan would begin the evening of February 17, with fasting starting on February 18. Local weather, horizon visibility, and differing criteria for what qualifies as an acceptable sighting can all influence the decision.

Community preparations and practical implications

Religious leaders, mosques, and community groups typically begin logistical preparations weeks ahead. These include scheduling Tarawih prayers, arranging charity and iftar programs, and communicating expected start dates to congregants. Businesses and schools with significant Muslim populations often prepare flexible schedules to accommodate possible date changes.

Travel and pilgrimage plans tied to Ramadan observances may also be affected. Pilgrims and families coordinating large gatherings are advised to monitor announcements from their local religious authorities during the days preceding the expected start. Those who follow calculation-based calendars will already have firm dates, while others should be ready for a final confirmation after sunset on the 29th of Sha'ban.

As Ramadan 2026 approaches, communities will balance tradition and modern astronomical tools to determine exact observance dates. Observers across time zones should watch for local notices issued on the evening of the expected moon sighting to confirm when fasting and other Ramadan rituals will officially commence.