Holy. Reflective. Blessed. Ramadan is considered the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. Muslims around the world spend time in prayers, giving charity and fasting throughout the month. Ramadan is a season of profound spiritual recalibration for approximately 4.45 million Muslims in USA. And as the lunar cycle continues its steady rotation, everyone just has one question in their mind; when does Ramadan start 2026 in USA. 

Notably, the Islamic calendar (Hijri) is 11 days shorter than the Gregorian solar calendar. As the month is following during the North American winter, people observing the fast this year will experience shorter daylight hours and colder conditions. 

When does Ramadan start 2026 in USA? 

Based on astronomical calculations, Ramadan in USA is expected to begin on the evening of Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Because Islamic days begin at sunset, the first night of communal prayers (Taraweeh) will take place on February 18, with the first tentative day of fasting commencing at dawn on Thursday, February 19, 2026. However, this date is not fixed in stone. Like every year, the official start depends on the sighting of the new crescent moon, which can vary slightly by location and Islamic authority.

Why does the Ramadan 2026 start date differ in USA? 

Islamic months follow the lunar calendar, not the Gregorian calendar used in the US. This means Ramadan begins when the new moon is sighted. Some Muslim communities in the United States follow local moon sightings, while others rely on global announcements from countries such as Saudi Arabia or regional Islamic councils. Because of this, mosques in cities like New York, Chicago, and Houston may occasionally announce Ramadan one day apart.

How is the first day of Ramadan in USA determined? 

In the US, the start is traditionally determined by two primary methods. Many communities follow the Fiqh Council of North America (FCNA), which uses pre-calculated astronomical data to determine the birth of the new moon. Others adhere to the traditional Global Sighting (Saudi Arabia) or Local Sighting methodology, which requires a physical confirmation of the waxing crescent moon (Hilal). This can occasionally lead to a one-day difference in start dates between various mosques and regions.

What is the significance of Ramadan? 

Ramadan holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims as it commemorates the period when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It is a month of fasting, self-discipline, prayer and charity. Observing the fast from dawn to sunset encourages empathy for the less fortunate and strengthens faith. Beyond abstaining from food and drink, Ramadan emphasizes inner reflection, gratitude, and increased devotion through acts of kindness and worship.

Additionally, Ramadan is not merely about the absence of food; it is a structured timeline of spiritual milestones.

The First Ten Days (Mercy): As the fast begins on February 19, the focus is on “Rahmah” (Mercy), where Muslim believers adjust their internal clocks and focus on patience.

The Middle Ten Days (Forgiveness): This period focuses on “Maghfirah” (Forgiveness), often marked by increased nightly attendance at local mosques.

The Final Ten Days (Includes Laylat al-Qadr): The most intense spiritual period will begin around March 10, 2026, if Ramadan begins on February 19. It also includes Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Power, which is traditionally believed to occur on one of the odd nights in the last ten days of Ramadan, such as the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th night. Many mosques in USA hold “Qiyam-ul-Layl” (late-night prayers) that last until the early hours of the morning.

Indian Eagle Travel wishes everyone observing Ramadan a peaceful and blessed month. May this sacred time bring reflection, gratitude, and meaningful moments with loved ones. If you are planning to visit home during this holy period, booking your international flight tickets in advance can help you secure better fares and smoother travel between the USA and India.

Do you think Ramadan in USA will start on 18 February this year? Comment below and let us know when does Ramadan start 2026 in your area.

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