Ramadan

Ramadan History

Ramadan is a month long celebration of fasting, prayer, reflection and community. Considered one of the Five Pillars of Islam, it is a period dedicated for Muslims to draw closer to their faith, displaying devotion and discipline. Participants fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking, and participating in certain activities during daylight hours. Beyond fasting, Muslims are also encouraged to read the Quran, engage in charitable works and participate in communal prayers at night, known as Taraweeh.

The advent of Ramadan in France dates back to the mid-20th century, paralleling the waves of immigration from Muslim-majority countries. In France, Ramadan serves as a bridge between different communities, fostering understanding and respect. Beyond the religious aspects, it provides glimpses into the rich cultural diversity, highlighting uniquely French-Muslim traditions. The culinary landscape, for instance, provides a fascinating glimpse into this fusion, with traditional dishes served at Iftar –the meal that breaks the fast- merging seamlessly with French culinary traditions.

In France, the observance of Ramadan mirrors global Muslim practices, adapted to the local context. Communal prayers are held in various mosques across the country, traditionally followed by a communal meal to break the fast. During this period, Muslims in France, like their brethren worldwide, make adjustments to their daily routine to accommodate religious obligations. France, being a largely secular country does not officially recognize Ramadan, hence its occurrence -dictated by the lunar calendar- doesn't have a fixed date in the French Calendar. However, Muslims in France adapt by following the global Islamic calendar closely, observing Ramadan in sync with the global Muslim community.

Top 8 Facts for 2026 Ramadan (Begins) in France

• One of the most anticipated moments is the Nuit du Doute, a ceremony held at the Grande Mosquée de Paris where religious leaders observe the sky to officially confirm the beginning and end of the month based on the lunar crescent.
• The Conseil Français du Culte Musulman has already established the recommended amount for the Zakat al-Fitr, an obligatory alms-giving intended for the most vulnerable members of society, which is expected to be approximately nine euros per person in 2026.
• For many residents, the precise timing of the Ftour in major cities like Paris, Marseille, and Lyon remains a primary focus, as the daily sunset time dictates when families can gather to break their fast.
• During the final ten days of the observance, particular attention is paid to Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Destiny, which is considered the holiest night of the year and often sees mosques across France filled with worshippers for late-night prayers.
• Because the 2026 calendar places the fast in the late winter and early spring, practitioners in France will experience relatively shorter fasting days compared to summer years, though the Iftar time will gradually shift later into the evening as the spring equinox approaches.
• The cultural influence of the Maghreb in France is prominently displayed through the preparation of traditional dishes such as chorba, harira, and various honey-based pastries that become staples in local markets and bakeries during this period.
• Public interest often rises regarding the live digital broadcasts from the Grande Mosquée de Paris, allowing the faithful across the country to follow the official announcements of the religious commission in real time via social media.
• Many students and employees in France look for practical information on how to balance their spiritual obligations with the requirements of the secular public sphere, particularly regarding the organization of communal meals and prayer breaks.

In the News and Trending in France for Ramadan

Top things to do in France for Ramadan

• The fast is usually broken in a family setting, where traditional foods are served. Most Muslims begin their meal with a few dates and a glass of milk because the Prophet Muhammad used to do the same. The high sugar content of the dates sends energy to weary fasting Muslim, while the fiber in the dates and the protein in the milk fills them up and prevents nausea.
• During Ramadan, Muslims congregate every night in the mosque to pray Taraweeh prayers in congregation. In the United States, in between sets of prayers, the Imam gives a brief sermon and encourages people to give to charity.
• Break the Fast with Iftar: Many restaurants and communities host special dinners to break the fast each night during Ramadan. Some even offer free meals for those who are fasting. This is a great way to experience the French-Muslim culture.
• Read a book to read to learn more about Ramadan in France:
  Islam in France: The French Way of Life Is in Danger - by Paul Fregosi
  Why the French Don't Like Headscarves: Islam, the State, and Public Space - by John R. Bowen
  Divided We Stand: Islam, the West, and the Global War on Terror - by Faroque Abdullah Khan