What is Ramadan and when is it?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered one of the holiest months for Muslims. During Ramadan, Muslims around the world fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, smoking, and intimate relations. The fast, known as sawm, is intended to foster spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and empathy for those less fortunate.

The specific timing of Ramadan varies each year because the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle. In 2024, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of March 10 and end on the evening of April 9. The exact dates may vary by a day depending on the sighting of the moon. The month concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festival marking the end of fasting.