On the annual calendar of the Islamic Faith, there are two official holidays; Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha. The former begins at the end of Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting that is also a time of prayer and a chance to be with loved ones.
The exact date of Ramadan changes annually because it’s set using the lunar calendar, which moves forward about 11 days each year. In 2030, it’s predicted there will be two Ramadans in a single year.
When does Ramadan start in 2024?
According to the Islamic faith calendar, Ramadan is expected to begin on Monday, March 11, and run up to Wednesday, April 10, climaxing in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
Eid day usually changes annually depending on the sighting of the crescent moon which ultimately determines the day.
What is Ramadan, and the traditions?
Ramadan is a holy month dedicated to fasting, time with loved ones, reflection, charity and prayer. Muslims believe it was during this month God gave the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad and told him he was in charge of carrying God’s message.
Fasting is one of the pillars of Islam and an important part of Ramadan. Muslims who have reached puberty and who are physically capable, fast from dawn until sunset and abstain from liquids, food, sexual activities (couples are allowed to engage at night once the fast is broken), gossip, negative thoughts and bad intentions.
Fasting Muslim faithful break their fast after an evening prayer with iftār, a meal often celebrated with friends, family and community.
The holiest night of Ramadan is Laylat Al-Qadr, which occurs during the last 10 days of the month. Laylat al-Qadr is known as the “Night of Power” and is said to be when the Angel Jibril (Gabriel) revealed the Qur’an’s first verses to the Prophet Muhammad. It is observed as a night for reflection, prayer and good deeds and is this year expected to occur on Friday, April 5, 2024.
Eid al-Fitr 2024
Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Sweets or Festival of Breaking the Fast. It marks the end of the monthlong dawn-to-sunset fasting during Ramadan.
Eid al-Fitr celebrations vary but often include spending time with family and friends, gift-giving, charitable giving and festivals with food and activities.
Because the start of the holiday depends on when the new moon is seen, Eid al-Fitr begins at a different time for different countries. It’s expected to begin around April 9.
To all the Muslim faithful who will be observing Ramadan, Ramadan Mubarak! (“blessed Ramadan”)! from DailyExpress.
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