When Is Eid al-Fitr 2026?
Eid al-Fitr 2026 is expected on Saturday, March 28 or Sunday, March 29, 2026 (1 Shawwal 1447 AH), depending on the moon sighting marking the end of Ramadan.
What Is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr — literally the "Festival of Breaking the Fast" — is one of the two major Islamic holidays. It marks the end of Ramadan and is a day of gratitude, celebration, and community.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "For every people there is a feast and this is our feast." (Bukhari)
Eid Day Traditions
Before Eid Prayer
- Ghusl (ritual bath): It is Sunnah to bathe before Eid prayer
- Wear your best clothes: New or finest garments
- Eat before prayer: Unlike Eid al-Adha, you should eat (preferably dates) before Eid al-Fitr prayer
- Pay Zakat al-Fitr: Must be paid before Eid prayer
- Takbeer: Recite takbeer from sunset of the last day of Ramadan until Eid prayer
Eid Prayer
A special congregational prayer performed in the morning, typically in a mosque, community center, or open field. The prayer consists of two rak'ahs with additional takbeers, followed by a khutbah (sermon).
After Prayer
- Greetings: "Eid Mubarak!" or "Taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum" (May Allah accept from us and you)
- Family visits: Visit relatives, especially elders
- Food and feasting: Share meals with family, friends, and neighbors
- Gifts: Especially for children (Eidi — money given to younger family members)
- Charity: Continue giving even after Ramadan
Zakat al-Fitr: Your Eid Obligation
Every Muslim must pay Zakat al-Fitr before Eid prayer. It equals one sa'a (approximately 2.5-3 kg) of staple food or its monetary equivalent — around $15-$20 per person in 2026.
This applies to every member of your household, including children and dependents. The purpose is to purify the fasting person and ensure the poor can celebrate Eid.
Making Eid Special for Those in Need
While we celebrate with our families, millions of Muslims in Gaza, Sudan, Yemen, and Lebanon face Eid in displacement, hunger, and grief. Umma Foundation delivers Eid meals, supplies, and joy to families in crisis — because every Muslim deserves to celebrate.
