Muslims around the world eagerly wait for Ramadan, the sacred month in the Islamic calendar known as a source to reconnect with Allah. During this month, Muslims engage in increased Ibadah and fast from dawn to sunset. In 2025, Ramadan is expected to begin in the United States on the evening of Friday, February 28, or Saturday, March 1, depending on the sighting of the new moon.
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, so Ramadan starts 11 days earlier each year than in the Gregorian calendar. This shift allows Muslims to fast during different seasons throughout their lives.
When will Ramadan begin in 2025?
Ramadan’s exact start and end dates depend on the new moon’s sighting. However, it is expected to begin in the US on the evening of Friday, February 28, or Saturday, March 1.
Islamic scholars and organizations in the US often collaborate to determine the official dates. Some Muslims follow the moon’s sighting in their local area, while others may follow announcements from countries like Saudi Arabia.
When is the end of Ramadan?
Ramadan ends with the sighting of the new moon, marking the beginning of the month of Shawwal. This celebration is known as Eid al-Fitr, one of the major Islamic holidays. In 2025, Eid al-Fitr is expected to fall on Monday, March 31, or Tuesday, April 1, depending on the moon sighting.
How long is Ramadan?
Ramadan typically lasts 29 or 30 days, depending on the lunar cycle. In 2025, Ramadan is likely to end on the evening of Sunday, March 30, or Monday, March 31.
The Quran mentions the importance of Ramadan in the following verse:
“The month of Ramadan [is that] in which the Quran was revealed, a guide for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion.” [2:185]
What’s so Special About Ramadan?
During Ramadan, adult Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. They abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs to purify their souls and practice self-discipline. This act of fasting, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is not just a physical practice but a spiritual journey towards self-discipline and closeness to Allah.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“When Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
Daily Ramadan schedule
A typical day in Ramadan includes:
- Suhoor: The pre-dawn meal before fasting begins
- Fajr prayer: The morning prayer at dawn; this is when one must stop eating and drinking
- Fasting: From dawn to sunset
- Iftar: The meal to break the fast at sunset. This is at the time of Maghrib prayer.
- Taraweeh: Special nightly prayers during Ramadan
Why does the date of Ramadan change each year?
The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, about 11 days shorter than the solar year. Thus, Ramadan moves earlier by about 11 days each year in the Gregorian calendar.
For example:
- Ramadan 2024: Expected to start around March 10
- Ramadan 2025: Expected to start around February 28
- Ramadan 2026: Expected to start around February 18
Importance of Ramadan
Ramadan is a time of increased worship and charity. Muslims spend more time reciting the holy Quran; they donate more and try to draw closer to Allah.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever fasts during Ramadan out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
Ramadan in the US
Muslims in the United States come from diverse backgrounds, and Ramadan practices may vary. Many mosques host community iftars, and some cities have festivals or markets during Ramadan.
Fasting hours can be quite long in some parts of the US, especially during the summer months in northern states. However, in 2025, Ramadan will occur during late winter/early spring, providing more manageable fasting hours for many American Muslims.
Looking Ahead to Ramadan 2025 in the US
While the exact dates may vary slightly, Ramadan 2025 in the US is expected to begin around February 28 or March 1 and end around March 30 or 31. This holy month is special for Muslims; it is their chance to deepen their faith, earn rewards, and ask for forgiveness from Allah.
As we approach Ramadan 2025, let’s remember the words of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):
“He who gives iftar to a fasting person shall have a reward equal to the fasting person’s reward without detracting from the latter’s reward.” (Tirmidhi)
Whether you’re a Muslim preparing for the holy month or a non-Muslim interested in learning more, understanding when Ramadan occurs can help in understanding and respecting America’s diverse society.
