Eid 2026: Global Anticipation Builds as Saudi Arabia Prepares for Moonsighting Attempt
Muslims across London and the globe, having observed the holy month of Ramadan through fasting, are now eagerly awaiting the first sighting of the new crescent moon to herald the celebrations of Eid al-Fitr 2026. This festival, also spelled Eid ul-Fitr, signifies the 'festival of breaking the fast' and marks the commencement of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan. Many Muslim communities are directing their attention to Saudi Arabia today, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, where the initial moonsighting attempt is scheduled to occur shortly after sunset.
Timings and Announcements for the UK
Sunset in Riyadh is projected for 6:03 PM local time, while in Jeddah, it will occur at 6:34 PM. Given that Saudi Arabia operates three hours ahead of the UK, if the new crescent moon is sighted and officially declared, Muslims in the UK can anticipate receiving the announcement shortly after 3 PM UK time. However, experts express doubts about the moon's visibility today. Should the crescent remain unseen, fresh attempts will be made tomorrow, Thursday, in both Saudi Arabia and the UK for communities adhering to local sighting protocols.
London School Closures Announced
In preparation for Eid, several London schools have proactively communicated closure plans to parents and guardians. Haggerston School in Hackney has confirmed it will be closed on Friday, March 20, as published at the academic year's start. The school noted that if Eid is confirmed for Thursday, March 19, closures will extend to both Thursday and Friday, with final confirmation expected this evening.
Similarly, The Excelsior Academy in Hackney's Shacklewell area has issued a letter stating closure on Friday, March 20, acknowledging that many staff and pupils are observing Ramadan. The school emphasized that the exact Eid date depends on moonsighting and will be confirmed shortly beforehand, with potential closure on Thursday if Eid falls on that day.
Celebrations and Events Across London
Planning for Eid festivities is in full swing across the capital. One of London's largest Eid celebrations, the 1Eid Festival in Goodmayes, Ilford, promises a vibrant schedule. Events include Eid Salah prayers at 10 AM, a day festival from 11 AM to 10 PM featuring fireworks at 7:30 PM, and continued celebrations the following day from 1 PM to 9 PM. The festival will offer an Eid fair with over 30 rides and games, international food stalls, shopping stalls, and sweet treats. Ticket prices range from £4 for a single day with fireworks access to £6 for multi-day access, with family packages available.
Additionally, Southwark Eid in the Park at Burgess Park is another major event expected to draw thousands. London's 1.3 million Muslims are likely to celebrate over two days, with exact start dates pending the official moonsighting, potentially beginning on Thursday, March 19, or Friday, March 20, and extending into Saturday, March 21.
Last-Minute Shopping and Cultural Practices
As is customary, many are seeking new outfits for Eid. A MyLondon reporter explored Green Street in East London, a hub for South Asian goods, attempting to purchase an Eid outfit for £40. Despite crowds, she successfully acquired a floral shalwar kameez with a matching dupatta. Shops like Tayibah and Muskaan London are recommended for last-minute shopping, with locations in Whitechapel and Ilford.
For those unfamiliar with Eid traditions, gift-giving etiquette suggests offering gifts with a personal touch, such as saying 'Eid Mubarak' or 'Ramadan Mubarak'. Experts note that while gifts are not obligatory, they are appreciated gestures during this festive period.
Moonsighting Details and Global Updates
Today marks the 29th day of Ramadan in Saudi Arabia, necessitating moonsighting this evening. However, data from UK Government astronomers at the Royal Observatory Greenwich indicates the new moon will not be 'born' until 1:23 AM Universal Time on Thursday, March 19, making sighting unlikely. Saudi officials are expected to declare a 'negative moonsighting', potentially extending Ramadan by one day and setting Eid for Friday, March 21.
In the UK, Muslims often rely on following other countries like Saudi Arabia or Morocco for moonsighting announcements, as there is no established national framework. The New Crescent Society advocates for local sightings and will livestream a moonsighting watch along on YouTube and Facebook from 6:35 PM on Thursday, March 19. UK-wide gatherings have been announced for Thursday evening in cities including Bradford, Birmingham, and London, where communities will monitor the skies from sunset around 6:05 PM.
Globally, the Fiqh Council of North America has declared Eid ul-Fitr 2026 for Friday, March 20, based on expected crescent visibility on Thursday. Nigeria has announced public holidays for Thursday and Friday. Looking ahead, Eid ul Adha, or Greater Eid, is anticipated to begin around May 27, 2026, subject to moonsighting.
How to Participate in Moonsighting
For those interested in attempting to spot the new crescent moon, astronomers recommend an unobstructed view of the western horizon post-sunset. The moon appears near the sunset, and spotting it may require binoculars or a telescope. Key conditions include the sun having set, the moon being above the horizon, and sufficient angular separation between them—roughly the width of three fingers at arm's length.
As the Muslim world holds its breath, the outcome of today's moonsighting will soon clarify Eid dates, enabling final preparations for prayers, gatherings, and joyous celebrations across London and beyond.
