Ramadan Begins Tuesday: Tips for Safe and Healthy Fasting

Michigan's Muslim community prepares to observe the holy month with prayer, charity, and spiritual reflection.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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More than 250,000 Muslims in Michigan will begin observing the holy month of Ramadan on Tuesday evening, February 17th. During Ramadan, observant Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, focusing on devotion, reading the Quran, and performing special prayers. Health experts recommend staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and staying active to safely navigate the fasting period.

Why it matters

Ramadan is a significant time for the Muslim community, providing an opportunity to strengthen faith and connection with God. As one of the largest Muslim populations in the U.S., Michigan's observance of Ramadan is an important cultural event that highlights the diversity and traditions of the state's residents.

The details

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, marked by fasting, nightly prayers, communal gatherings, and charity. To safely observe the fasting period, health experts advise staying hydrated by drinking fluids throughout the night, eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods during evening meals, and maintaining an active lifestyle despite the physical challenges of fasting.

  • Ramadan is expected to begin the evening of February 17, 2026.
  • February 18, 2026 will mark the first day of fasting.
  • Eid Al-Fitr, the three-day celebration marking the end of Ramadan, will begin on March 29, 2026.

The players

Islamic Networks Group

A nonprofit organization that provides information about Islam and the Muslim community in the United States.

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What they’re saying

“Ramadan is a month of intense spiritual rejuvenation with a heightened focus on devotion, during which Muslims spend extra time reading the Qu'ran and performing special prayers.”

— Islamic Networks Group (Islamic Networks Group website)

What’s next

As Ramadan approaches, Michigan's Muslim community will gather at mosques across the state to celebrate the holy month through prayer, fasting, and community events.

The takeaway

Ramadan is a significant cultural and religious observance for Michigan's diverse Muslim population, providing an opportunity for spiritual reflection and strengthening community ties. By following health guidelines, observers can safely navigate the fasting period and fully engage in the month's spiritual rituals and traditions.