When Is Eid 2026? Everything You Need to Know

As Ramadan 2026 approaches its final blessed nights, many of us begin looking forward to one of the most joyful moments of the Islamic calendar - Eid al-Fitr. After a month of fasting, worship, good deeds and self-reflection, Eid arrives as a beautiful gift from Allah SWT, marking the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal.

However, Islamic months are determined by moon sightings. This means the exact date of Eid changes each year. Naturally, people ask the same question:

“When is Eid in 2026?”

Here is what you need to know to prepare for Eid al-Fitr 2026. This is based on moon-sighting guidance, astronomical predictions, and Islamic tradition.

So, When Is Eid al-Fitr 2026?

Eid al-Fitr begins when the new crescent moon (hilal) is sighted, signalling the end of Ramadan.

Expected Eid al-Fitr 2026 Date

According to current global forecasts:

• Eid al-Fitr is expected to be on Friday, 20 March 2026.
• Some regions may observe it on Saturday, 21 March 2026, depending on the sighting of the moon.

This difference happens because communities follow different moon-sighting methods: local, regional, global, or calculation-based.

Still, 20 March 2026 remains the most widely expected date.

How Is the Date of Eid Determined?

The date of Eid follows a simple Islamic principle:

If the new moon is sighted on the 29th night of Ramadan, Eid is the next day.

If not, Ramadan completes 30 days.

The moon can be confirmed if:

• It appears above the horizon after sunset.
• Weather conditions allow clear visibility.
• Trusted authorities verify the sighting.

This is why Eid dates vary, not only year to year, but sometimes community to community.

Understanding Ramadan 2026

Astronomical data suggests that Ramadan 2026 will begin on:

• Wednesday 18th February (subject to moon-sighting)

This places the 29th night of Ramadan, the night during which Muslims look for the new moon on:

• Thursday, 19 March 2026

And therefore, Eid al-Fitr is expected on Friday, 20 March 2026.

Throughout Ramadan, Muslims increase their acts of worship, recite Qur’an (including Surah Al-Qadr for those seeking closeness to Allah), and reflect deeply on the mercy of Allah SWT. The final 10 nights, especially the 27th night of Ramadan, which is often associated with Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree), are a period of special prayers and seeking forgiveness.

How Long Until Eid 2026?

How Muslims Celebrate Eid al-Fitr

Eid is a time of unity, gratitude and celebration. After a month of restraint, Eid is a reminder of Allah SWT's mercy and the joy that follows sincere worship.

Common Eid Traditions Include:

• Performing the Eid prayer in congregation.
• Giving Zakat al-Fitr before the prayer.
• Wearing one’s best or new clothes.
• Visiting loved ones and neighbours.
• Sharing food, sweets, and cultural dishes.
• Making dua for the Ummah.
• Continuing good deeds even after Ramadan.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged Muslims to treat Eid as a day of joy and mercy, a celebration of faith and community.

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Why is Eid al-Fitr Important?

Eid al-Fitr is not just a festive occasion; it is the culmination of a month of worship, patience and striving for closeness to Allah.

During Ramadan, Muslims engage in:

• Extra prayers.
• Night worship during the ten nights of Ramadan.
• Giving charity.
• Seeking forgiveness.
• Building better habits and character.

Eid becomes a joyful moment where the entire Ummah celebrates the blessings of Ramadan and steps into Shawwal with renewed hearts.

A Brief Note on Eid al-Adha 2026

While this blog focuses on Eid al-Fitr, the second major Islamic celebration, Eid al-Adha, will fall later in the year.

Astronomical predictions estimate:

• Eid al-Adha 2026 will likely be on Wednesday, 27th May.

Preparing for Eid 2026

To make the most of Eid, here are a few ways to prepare spiritually and practically.

Before Eid:

• Give Zakat al-Fitr on time.
• Plan Eid prayer with your local mosque.
• Reflect on the lessons of Ramadan.
• Increase good deeds in the final nights.
• Seek forgiveness and stay consistent with worship.

On Eid Day:

• Perform ghusl before prayer.
• Eat something before the Eid salah.
• Recite the takbir.
• Visit family and neighbours.
• Spread kindness and gratitude.
• Give charity to help others celebrate.

Eid is a reminder that acts of worship don’t end with Ramadan; they are carried forward into the year ahead.

What Time Will the Eid Prayer Be in 2026?

Eid prayers are held shortly after sunrise and must take place before mid-morning.

While timings vary by location, most mosques begin their Eid prayers between:

• 7:00 am – 10:00 am in the UK.
• Shortly after sunrise in Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
• Early morning across North America and Australia.

Your local Islamic centre will provide exact timings closer to the day.

Conclusion

Eid al-Fitr 2026 is expected on Friday, 20 March 2026, marking the end of Ramadan, a month filled with worship, reflection, and mercy.

Whether you are preparing for the celebration, finalising your Zakat al-Fitr, or striving to make the most of the last ten days of Ramadan, Eid is a reminder of Allah’s blessings and the unity of the Ummah.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to pray Eid salah?

Eid prayer is two rakats with extra takbirs: After the opening takbir, say “Allahu Akbar” three to seven more times, then recite Surah Al-Fatiha and another surah. In the second rakat, repeat the takbirs before ruku. The sermon (khutbah) follows the prayer.

What is Eid Mubarak?

"Eid Mubarak" is a greeting used by Muslims to wish each other a blessed and joyous Eid. It means "Blessed Eid" and expresses happiness and goodwill during the festival, uniting families and communities in celebration.

Is Eid salah fardh?

Eid al-Fitr is not fardh (obligatory) but is strongly recommended as a Sunnah muakkadah (emphasised practice) by most scholars. It is a communal prayer performed in congregation, highlighting unity and thankfulness.

How long is Eid?

Eid al-Fitr is celebrated for one day. Still, festivities and public holidays may last two to three days in some countries, allowing families and communities to gather, feast, and give charity.​

What charity is given on Eid?

Zakat al-Fitr is given before the Eid prayer, enabling those in need to join the celebrations. It is a set amount of food or money given by every fasting Muslim, emphasising care for the less fortunate.

Why do Muslims perform Eid prayer in congregation?

Eid prayer is performed in congregation to foster unity, gratitude, and community spirit. Gathering together for prayer strengthens social bonds and reminds Muslims of the values promoted during Ramadan.