English Translation (Markdown)
The Muslim Theological Council of France (CTMF) Announces the Projected Date for Eid al‑Fitr 2026
The Muslim Theological Council of France (CTMF) has announced the preliminary date for the celebration of Eid al‑Fitr 2026, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims living in France.
Based on astronomical calculations that take the moon’s position into account, Friday, 20 March 2026 would be the first day of the month of Shawwal, corresponding to the start of the Eid festivities.
Note: This estimate remains subject to official confirmation, which will depend on the actual sighting of the lunar crescent as required by Islamic tradition. French religious authorities—most notably the Grande Mosquée de Paris—will conduct the observation on the so‑called “night of doubt” to validate the final date.
Why the Early Announcement Matters
- Planning of communal prayers and family gatherings can be organized well in advance.
- Charitable actions and the distribution of Zakat al‑Fitr (the obligatory almsgiving to the most vulnerable) can be coordinated efficiently.
- Travel arrangements and community events across the country can be scheduled with confidence.
The CTMF emphasizes that, while astronomical calculations allow for a precise forecast, the traditional moon‑sighting practice remains essential. Consequently, the final date may vary slightly depending on the visibility of the crescent in different regions of France.
