When are Muslim holidays in 2025? This question is often asked by those who wish to understand the Islamic calendar and its significance in the lives of Muslims around the world. The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is based on the Hijrah, the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD. It is a lunar calendar, meaning it is based on the phases of the moon and is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, which is used widely in the Western world.
The Islamic year is divided into twelve months, with each month beginning on the first sighting of the new moon. This makes the dates of Muslim holidays vary each year in the Gregorian calendar. In 2025, the following are the major Muslim holidays:
1. Ramadan (Month of Fasting)
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered the holiest month of the year. Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations. The month of Ramadan concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a three-day festival that marks the end of fasting. In 2025, Ramadan is expected to begin on April 15 and end on May 14.
2. Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast)
Eid al-Fitr is a joyous celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. Muslims gather in mosques and public places to offer special prayers, exchange gifts, and share meals with family and friends. In 2025, Eid al-Fitr is scheduled for May 15.
3. Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice)
Eid al-Adha is another major Islamic holiday that commemorates the willingness of Prophet Abraham to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to God. Muslims observe this holiday by sacrificing an animal, such as a sheep, goat, or camel, and distributing the meat to the poor and needy. In 2025, Eid al-Adha is expected to begin on July 31 and end on August 3.
4. Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet’s Birthday)
Mawlid al-Nabi is the birthday of Prophet Muhammad and is celebrated by Muslims around the world. The exact date of the Prophet’s birth is not known, but it is traditionally observed on the twelfth day of the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-Awwal. In 2025, Mawlid al-Nabi is expected to be on February 18.
5. Ashura
Ashura is the tenth day of the Islamic month of Muharram and is observed as a day of mourning and remembrance of the Battle of Karbala, in which Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Imam Husayn, and his followers were martyred. The observance of Ashura varies among Muslims, with some fasting and others participating in processions and other religious activities. In 2025, Ashura is expected to be on October 12.
Understanding the dates of Muslim holidays in 2025 can help individuals plan their schedules and show respect for the Islamic faith. As the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, the dates of these holidays may vary slightly each year. It is always a good idea to check with local Muslim communities or religious authorities for the exact dates and observances in your area.
