Ramadan 2025, the sacred month of fasting and reflection for Muslims worldwide, is approaching, bringing with it a celestial marvel. This year, Ramadan’s timeline will coincide with a spectacular partial solar eclipse, blending spiritual devotion with an awe-inspiring astronomical event.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to Ramadan 2025, including its start and end dates, and details about the solar eclipse.
When Does Ramadan 2025 Begin?
Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, which is based on the moon’s phases. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is fixed, the Islamic calendar’s months begin and end with the sighting of the crescent moon. This means the exact start date of Ramadan varies depending on local moon sightings.
READ MORE: 6 Major Events Of The Holy Month Of Ramadan
For 2025, Ramadan is expected to begin on Friday, February 28, or Saturday, March 1, based on the visibility of the crescent moon following the new moon on Thursday, February 27. There is even a possibility that Ramadan may start on Sunday, March 2, depending on the lunar observation. This crescent moon, often referred to as the “Ramadan Moon,” marks the end of the Islamic month of Sha‘ban and the beginning of Ramadan.
When Does Ramadan 2025 End?
Ramadan concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a joyous festival marking the end of fasting. This will occur after the appearance of the crescent moon, known as the “Shawwal Moon,” which signals the start of the Islamic month of Shawwal.
In 2025, Eid al-Fitr is expected to take place on Saturday, March 29, Sunday, March 30, or possibly even Monday, March 31. The exact date depends on the sighting of the Shawwal Moon, which occurs shortly after the new moon.
The Solar Eclipse of Ramadan 2025
A unique feature of Ramadan 2025 is the partial solar eclipse coinciding with its conclusion. On Saturday, March 29, the new moon will bring the year’s first solar eclipse. This partial solar eclipse will be visible in various regions, including eastern North America and Europe.
In parts of New Brunswick and northern Quebec, Canada, and across Europe, observers will witness up to 94% of the sun obscured by the moon. Approximately 814 million people are expected to witness this event. Those planning to observe the eclipse should use proper solar eclipse glasses or filters for safe viewing.
READ MORE: 10 Issues That Can Impact Your Ramadan
This celestial event will occur just hours before the crescent moon marking Eid al-Fitr is expected to appear, making it a memorable conclusion to the holy month.
Who Determines the Start and End of Ramadan?
The process of determining the start and end of Ramadan can vary across the Muslim world. While clerics in Mecca, Saudi Arabia — the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) — observe the crescent moon to set the official dates, many Muslim communities rely on local moon sightings. This variation can lead to differences in the start and end dates of Ramadan in different regions.
Why Does the Timing of Ramadan Change Each Year?
The Islamic lunar calendar is approximately 11 days shorter than the solar calendar, with each lunar year comprising 354 days. As a result, Ramadan shifts earlier by about 11 days annually in the Gregorian calendar. Over a 33-year cycle, Ramadan passes through all seasons, offering unique challenges and blessings depending on the time of year.
Wishing you clear skies and heartfelt prayers.
