Grand Mosque of Paris to Announce End of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr Dates
Paris, March 18 – The Grand Mosque of Paris is set to hold the pivotal ‘Night of Doubt’ this Wednesday, March 18, 2026, to officially determine the end of Ramadan and the date of Eid al-Fitr. This highly anticipated event will bring together religious authorities to collectively decide between two possible dates for the celebration, which marks the end of the fasting month for millions of Muslims in France.
The exact timing of the end of Ramadan is a significant moment for the Muslim community. As in previous years, the precise conclusion of the holy month remains a subject of discussion, with the ‘Night of Doubt’ serving as a crucial step in transitioning to the next month in the lunar calendar.
A Decisive ‘Night of Doubt’ to Set the End of Ramadan
The Islamic calendar, or Hegira calendar, which governs the period of Ramadan, differs from the Gregorian calendar, resulting in an annual shift of approximately eleven days. Islamic authorities meticulously observe the sky to accurately determine the beginning and end of each month.
The ‘Night of Doubt,’ scheduled for this Wednesday, March 18, 2026, is of paramount importance. During this evening, numerous observers will scan the sky at sunset for the crescent moon. If the crescent is visible, the new month is declared to begin the following day. If it remains unseen, Ramadan is extended for an additional day.
Two Approaches to Establishing the Ramadan Calendar
In France, two distinct approaches are used to establish the Ramadan calendar. Some institutions, such as the French Council of the Muslim Faith, rely on astronomical calculations. This method offers reliability, often allowing for the anticipation of important dates weeks in advance, which facilitates planning for families and businesses.
However, the Grand Mosque of Paris favors a more traditional approach, continuing to observe the sky directly. This practice carries a stronger symbolic dimension, fostering unity among various Muslim sensibilities around a shared moment and strengthening the sense of community among the faithful.
Ramadan: What Date for Eid al-Fitr in 2026?
The decision made during the ‘Night of Doubt’ will directly impact the date of Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of fasting. Currently, two dates are being considered: Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, 2026. This uncertainty is not new, as divergences were observed earlier in the month regarding the start date of Ramadan. Many are awaiting to see if a consensus will be reached or if the faithful will be divided, with each group celebrating the end of Ramadan on a different date.
Muslims eagerly anticipate Eid al-Fitr, a true moment of joy. In the morning, the faithful will gather in mosques for collective prayers. The day will then continue with festive meals shared with family and friends. An important gesture, the zakat al-Fitr, an alms-giving to the less fortunate, is also emphasized. This alms, distributed before the Eid prayer, allows everyone to celebrate the end of Ramadan in the best possible spirit and can be entrusted to charitable organizations for redistribution.
Source: Mariefrance.fr
