What To Know About Ramadan: NJ Nonprofit Releases 2026 Guide

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — What is Ramadan? Why will Muslim residents be fasting? And how can non-Muslims better understand one of the most sacred months of the year on the Islamic calendar? These are some of the questions that are answered in an updated 2026 Ramadan and Eid Guide.

The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ) recently released a guide that helps elected officials learn more about the holy month of Ramadan. View it online here.

A spokesperson for the nonprofit advocacy group told Patch that the fact sheet isn’t just for politicians – it’s also broad enough for anyone to benefit from.

The guide provides some key insights into the practices and spiritual significance of Ramadan, including:

• An overview of the holiday and its importance in Islam
• Key practices observed by Muslims, such as fasting and prayer
• Information on Eid ul-Fitr and its cultural traditions
• Guidance on extending greetings like “Ramadan Mubarak” and “Eid Mubarak,” and how to show support for Muslim communities

CAIR-NJ executive director Selaedin Maksut said Ramadan is a time marked by fasting, prayer, charity and reflection – but it is also a deeply communal experience rooted in service, compassion and renewed faith.

“For Muslim families across New Jersey, Ramadan is a time of spiritual growth and civic responsibility, where we recommit ourselves not only to God, but to our neighbors and our broader community,” Maksut said.

Here are some things to know about Ramadan, as per CAIR-NJ:

WHEN DOES RAMADAN START AND END?

Depending on sighting of the new moon, Ramadan was expected to begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, or Thursday, February 19, 2026. The end of Ramadan or Eid ul-Fitr is expected to be on Friday, March 20, or Saturday, March 21, also depending on the sighting of the moon.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING RAMADAN?

Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam, observed by millions of Muslims worldwide, including thousands in New Jersey. It is a time of fasting, worship, reflection, self-discipline, and community service. Fasting from dawn to sunset during the holy month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, with Muslims refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours. The fast is broken each evening with a meal called Iftar, often shared with family, friends, and community.

WHAT IS EID?

Eid ul-Fitr, or the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is the celebration immediately after the conclusion of Ramadan. It is a joyous occasion of gratitude, family gatherings, and community engagement.

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