The Pakistani government has officially declared March 20-21, 2026, as public holidays for Eid ul Fitr, marking a significant occasion for Muslims across the nation. This announcement comes as Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, is set to conclude.

Ramadan in Pakistan began on February 19, 2026, and the first day of Eid is anticipated to fall on either March 20 or 21, depending on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will make the final decision regarding the sighting.

The new moon of Shawwal is expected to be born on March 19, 2026, but according to the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), the chances of sighting the crescent on that evening are low. The age of the new moon at sunset on March 19 will be approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes, with an interval of 28 minutes between sunset and moonset along Pakistan’s coastal belt.

The cabinet division stated, “The Prime Minister has been pleased to declare 20th and 21st March, 2026 (Friday and Saturday) as public holidays on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.” This decision allows families to come together and celebrate the end of Ramadan.

March 22, 2026, will remain a regular weekly holiday, and March 23 will be observed as a public holiday in honor of Pakistan Day. This extended holiday period provides an opportunity for citizens to engage in festivities and community gatherings.

Islamic months are determined by the lunar calendar, lasting either 29 or 30 days, with their start and end reliant on the sighting of the crescent moon. This tradition underscores the importance of astronomical observations in Islamic practices.

As the date approaches, many are eagerly awaiting confirmation of the crescent sighting. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact commencement of Eid ul Fitr, with observers looking to the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee for final announcements.