When Is Eid Mubarak 2026? Date, Significance, and Celebrations Explained
Eid Mubarak 2026 is expected to be celebrated on March 20, 2026 (Friday) in many countries, including India. However, the exact date depends on the sighting of the moon. If the crescent moon is not sighted on the expected evening, Eid may fall on March 21, 2026 (Saturday). Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection observed by Muslims worldwide.
What Is Eid-ul-Fitr Eid al-Fitr (commonly called Eid Mubarak) is one of the most important Islamic festivals. It celebrates the completion of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset for 29 or 30 days. The festival begins with the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon and is celebrated with: Special Eid prayers (Salat al-Eid) Charity (Zakat al-Fitr) Family gatherings Festive meals and sweets Giving gifts and greetings
Why Does the Eid Date Change Every Year Islam follows the Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle. Since the lunar year is about 10–11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, Islamic months shift earlier each year. Eid-ul-Fitr falls on the 1st day of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan. Because moon sighting may vary by region, different countries may celebrate Eid on different days. Expected Eid Date in India (2026) In India, moon sighting committees officially confirm the date. Based on astronomical calculations:
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around February 18, 2026 Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 is likely on March 20, 2026 Final confirmation will depend on moon sighting How Is Eid Celebrated in India In India, Eid is celebrated with great enthusiasm in cities like Delhi Mumbai Lucknow Hyderabad Major mosques witness large gatherings for Eid prayers, and markets are filled with shoppers buying clothes, sweets, and gifts. Traditional dishes such as sheer khurma, biryani, and kebabs are prepared at home
Eid-ul-Fitr vs Eid-ul-Adha Many people confuse Eid-ul-Fitr with Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakrid. Eid-ul-Fitr: Celebrated after Ramadan fasting Eid-ul-Adha: Celebrated about two months later during the Hajj season Eid-ul-Adha in 2026 is expected around May/June 2026, depending on moon sighting. Meaning of Eid Mubarak Eid Mubarak” means “Blessed Eid.” It is the traditional greeting exchanged among Muslims during the festival. People hug, visit relatives, and share meals as a symbol of unity and gratitude.
