Ramadan

Categories:: Religious
Tags:: Festivities Islamic
Where:: International
Date change rule:: Ninth month of the Islamic calendar, beginning 10-12 days earlier each year
Holiday emoji:: 🕌

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, begins February 18, 2026. Observed by Muslims worldwide, it’s a profound period of fasting from dawn till dusk, prayer, and spiritual reflection. Join in the community spirit, practice self-discipline, and engage in charitable acts throughout this holy month.

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Expected Ramadan Deals

During Ramadan, the focus shifts from commercial deals to spiritual growth, community support, and charitable giving. Many brands and organizations offer ways to facilitate these observances. Expect special Iftar and Suhoor meal offerings from restaurants like The Halal Guys and Nando’s, catering to families breaking their fast. Modest fashion retailers such as Modanisa and Aab Collection often feature collections suitable for Eid al-Fitr. Supermarkets like Whole Foods Market and Costco may stock specialty halal foods, dates, and traditional sweets. Charitable organizations like Islamic Relief Worldwide and Zakat Foundation of America will run donation campaigns for those observing Zakat and Sadaqah. We will update this page with confirmed live programs as February 2026 approaches.

Platform Guide for Ramadan

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #Ramadan. Share your Iftar preparations, reflections, or community gatherings through beautiful visuals and Reels.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #Ramadan. Connect with local Muslim communities, share fasting tips, or organize virtual Iftar events.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #Ramadan. Film your favorite Suhoor recipes, daily reflections, or Eid outfit reveals to inspire others.

Ramadan Hero

Prophet Muhammad

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the central figure of Islam, revered as God's last prophet. He received the first revelations of the Quran during Ramadan, making this month profoundly significant for Muslims worldwide as a time for spiritual renewal and devotion. His teachings and practices guide the observance of fasting, prayer, and charity.

History of Ramadan

To understand how Ramadan became such an important part of Islam, we need to go back to the very beginning — 610 A.D., to be precise. This is the year during which an Arabian man by the name of Muhammad was meditating in the cave of Hira, located in the Jabal an-Nour mountain close to Mecca. While he was meditating, Muhammad was visited by the angel Jibril who revealed the first words of what later came to be known as the Qur’an. The angel told Muhammad that those words came directly from Allah and that He is the one and only God. At that time in Arabia, it was common for people to worship several different gods, but the angel told Muhammad that Allah is the only true God.

After revealing the words of God, the angel commanded that Muhammad recite what he had just been shown. Muhammad couldn’t read or write at that time, but he was able to recite the words perfectly. It was then explained to Muhammad that he was the last of the prophets who Allah had sent to spread the teachings of the religion of Islam.

The night the Prophet Muhammad first saw the angel Jibril is known as Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power). Many Muslims believe this night occurred on the 27th night of the lunar year (which is what the Islamic calendar is based on), though some believe it occurred on any of the other odd nights in the final 10 days of the month.

Ramadan timeline

1312 B.C.

Revelation of Torah

It is believed that the Torah was bestowed on Moses on the second day of the month of Ramadan.

1010 B.C.

Revelation of Psalms

On the 18th day of Ramadan, the Psalms (Zabur) are bestowed on David (Dawood).

70 A.D.

Revelation of the Gospel

On the 12th day of Ramadan, the gospel is bestowed on Jesus according to the religion of Islam.

630 A.D.

Conquest of Mecca

The conquest of Mecca by Prophet Muhammad takes place on the 10th day of Ramadan.

How Businesses Can Celebrate Ramadan

Local businesses can respectfully acknowledge Ramadan by offering flexible working hours for Muslim employees, especially around Iftar and Suhoor times. Restaurants can create special halal-certified menus or Iftar meal boxes for families. Retailers can curate modest fashion collections or offer traditional items like dates and prayer mats. Community centers can host interfaith dialogues or public Iftar dinners to foster understanding and unity.

Ramadan FAQs

When is Ramadan?

In 2027, Ramadan will begin on Tuesday, February 8, and end on Wednesday, March 8. This annual observance shifts earlier each year, bringing its spiritual discipline to different seasons.

How many Muslims observe Ramadan?

With a global Muslim population exceeding 2 billion, the vast majority of adult Muslims observe Ramadan’s fast and spiritual practices. This collective act of devotion fosters immense unity and shared experience across diverse cultures.

What are the main observances during Ramadan?

Beyond the daily fast, Muslims dedicate themselves to increased prayer, reflection, and acts of kindness. Special nightly prayers called Taraweeh are performed, and many strive to complete a full reading of the Quran during the month.

What is Iftar and Suhoor?

These two meals are crucial for sustaining fasters throughout the day. Iftar typically begins with dates and water, followed by a larger meal, while Suhoor is designed to be nourishing and provide energy for the upcoming day of fasting.

How to Celebrate Ramadan

Dine with family
It's customary during Ramadan to invite friends, family, and acquaintances over for "suhoor" (pre-dawn meal) and "iftar" (break of a fast). Muslims and non-Muslims both can join in the fun and community spirit.
Give to charity
If they are capable, Muslims give to those in need during this time. In general, they give at least 2.5% of their assets during Ramadan. People can donate to the ones they know personally who require assistance. They can also give to local charities and food banks.
Fast from negative behaviors
Muslims fast from certain behaviors during the month of Ramadan. They abstain from anger, jealousy, complaining, and other negative thoughts and actions. They pay more careful attention to their behavior during Ramadan.

5 Interesting Facts About Ramadan

Brain boosting
The mental focus attained during Ramadan causes the body to improve brain function and reduce stress.
Detoxification
By not eating or drinking, a person’s body is given the chance to detoxify the digestive system throughout the month.
More nutrient absorption
During Ramadan, the metabolism becomes more efficient, which means the amount of nutrients a person can absorb from food improves.
Lowers cholesterol
Observing Ramadan has a positive effect on a person’s lipid profile, which means there is a reduction of cholesterol in the blood.
Helps prevent diabetes
During the fasting process, glucose levels are stabilized, which can lead to the prevention of Type 2 diabetes.

Why We Love Ramadan

Community spirit
Ramadan is the month that brings people closer to their neighbors and the community at large. The best part is the distributing of food packages to the poor and homeless. Praying next to people they don’t usually meet builds peace in the community.
It develops good habits
The main goal during Ramadan is for people to become the best version of themselves. They make an effort to read and understand the Qur’an every day, try to be more charitable, and try their best to ditch bad habits.
Planning for Eid
Eid comes right after Ramadan but it’s still an important part of Ramadan. From buying new clothes to making plans for family gatherings, and getting ready to give gifts to loved ones, Eid is considered the reward for fasting!