Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan, is expected to fall on Sunday, 22 March 2026, according to astronomical calculations. The date may vary by a day depending on the sighting of the new moon, which determines the Islamic lunar calendar.
The variation in Eid dates occurs because the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, with months beginning when the crescent moon is sighted. Different countries rely on either local moon sightings or astronomical predictions, leading to potential differences of one day.
Muslims worldwide will celebrate with prayers, feasts, and charitable acts. The festival typically lasts three days, with families and communities coming together to mark the end of a month of fasting from dawn to sunset.
In the UK, mosques and Islamic centres are preparing for large congregational prayers, and many local councils have announced special events. The exact date will be confirmed closer to the time by religious authorities.
