eid in India could fall on March 20, 2026 (ET) or March 21, 2026 (ET), depending on whether the Shawwal moon is sighted on the evening of March 19, 2026 (ET). Muslims across the country will watch for the moon on the 29th day of Ramzan, and local committees will make the formal announcement. Pakistan has announced a two-day Eid Al-Fitr holiday on March 20-21, 2026 (ET).
Why Eid date varies each year
The date of Eid shifts because the start of Shawwal is determined by sighting the new moon. In 2026 the 29th day of Ramzan falls on March 19, 2026 (ET); if the Shawwal moon is seen that evening, Eid is observed the next day, March 20, 2026 (ET). If the moon is not visible on March 19, Ramzan will complete 30 days and Eid will be observed on March 21, 2026 (ET). Astronomical calculations suggest a higher chance of a moon sighting on March 19, 2026 (ET), making Eid more likely on March 20, 2026 (ET).
Eid preparations and Chand Raat traditions
Chand Raat, the evening when the Shawwal moon is sought, is described as a special night when markets stay open late, families shop for new clothes, and women apply mehndi. Homes are filled with the aroma of sevaiyan and sweets being prepared, children anticipate Eidi, and communities gather to celebrate if the moon is sighted. Major cities named for moon-spotting activity include Delhi, Lucknow, Hyderabad, and Mumbai; local moon-sighting committees and religious bodies make the official declarations that set the eid date for their areas.
Regional notices and what to expect next
With Pakistan announcing a two-day Eid Al-Fitr holiday on March 20-21, 2026 (ET), attention will now turn to local declarations in India after sunset on March 19, 2026 (ET). Officials and moon-sighting committees will confirm whether the Shawwal crescent is visible; communities will then prepare for public prayers and celebrations the following morning. For residents and travelers, the practical next step is to await local announcements after sunset on March 19, 2026 (ET) so plans for holidays, travel, and gatherings can be finalized.
Expect final confirmations on the eve of March 19, 2026 (ET), and watch for immediate local announcements that will set the exact day of eid for each area.
