When does Ramadan begin? What to know about the month-long period of fasting for Muslims

Ramadan has begun in the United States. What you need to know about the important Muslim holiday.

Temilade Adelaja

Born in Chicago, Joe played varsity football and baseball in Bowling Green, Ohio for BGHS and later played lacrosse at BGSU. A year abroad in Spain changed everything. As destiny would have it he ended up living in Zaragoza, running his own business, teaching Journalism at a private university then working as a SEO journalist for Diario AS.

Update: Mar 1st, 2025 07:45 EST

During the celebration believers must observe a severe fast from food and drink. This very significant holiday begins after the sighting of the first quarter of the Moon.

Ramadan, the holy month of the Muslim religion

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which is considered a sacred period of the year for the Muslim community. This event commemorates the revelation of the first texts of the holy book, the Koran, from Allah to his prophet Muhammad. During this time, some believers choose to observe a fast from dawn to dusk. Muslims are also encouraged to engage in prayers, read the holy book, and perform charitable works.

In this Holy Month, let us all embrace our common humanity to build a more just and peaceful world for all.

— @antonioguterres as millions of people around the world begin to observe #Ramadan. pic.twitter.com/wwiTe8ilLX
— United Nations (@UN) February 28, 2025

The dates of Ramadan, from Feb. 28 to March 29

Keep in mind that Ramadan usually lasts around 30 days—a full month. The dates do vary from year to year and are determined through lunar cycles.

This sacred month usually begins the day after the Moon sighting committee, located in Saudi Arabia, spots this element in the first quarter phase. This is when Ramadan officially begins.

Hours vary depending on the area

Another of the most important details that must be taken into account about the holy month for the Muslim community is directly related to the hours in which it occurs. Various factors influence, such as the place on the planet where the believer in question is located. Likewise, the daily fasting that must be carried out or the prayers that must be carried out also have an important weight in the schedules that must be followed.

March 29, closing date of Ramadan

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This 2025 Ramadan will end on March 29, a day known as ‘Eid al-Fitr.’ During this party, it is very common to use the expression ‘Eid Mubarak.’ This message can be sent to Muslim friends who celebrate in a similar way to wishing people “happy holidays.” For more than a day, it is usually carried out, but it can vary depending on different factors. Moreover, this day can be extended up to three days.

This celebration begins in the mosque, a place of prayer, during the early hours of the day. After praying, the Ramadan fast is fulfilled. Likewise, it is worth mentioning that families and friends gather to enjoy traditional gastronomy.