Sana Khalid 
Introduction
Eid ul Fitr 2026 in Pakistan is a very special event as it signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is celebrated with joy, gratitude and being together with family, friends, and loved ones through prayer, family gatherings, traditional foods and customs throughout the country.
Expected Eid Date in Pakistan 2026
Eid ul Fitr will be celebrated in Pakistan on Friday, March 20, 2026, as expected. However, it is still possible that this date will change if the Shawwal (H) moon is not sighted. In that case, Eid will occur one day later (March 21) than initially expected.
In Pakistan Eid is based on its own method of moon sighting and therefore as a result could potentially happen on a different date than what occurs in other countries like Saudi Arabia.
Moon Sighting in Pakistan
In Pakistan the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee makes all official announcements regarding the beginning of Eid. The responsibility of this committee is to observe the moon and confirm the start of a new Islamic month.
On the 29th day after observing the Ramadan moon, meetings are conducted in many cities to directly sight for the actual moon. After witnessing the moon Eid is declared to occur on the next calendar day, otherwise Eid will occur after Ramadan has been completed (30 days).
Chand Raat and Preparations
In Pakistan, the night before Eid is popularly known as Chand Raat, meaning ‘moonlight night,’ and this night is used as an opportunity to celebrate togetherness following Ramadan. The markets of Pakistan stay open late so that people can shop for new clothes, bangles, henna/Mehndi, and sweets. It’s common for women and girls to apply henna (or Mehndi) as a way to prepare for the festivities of Eid. Families use this night to prepare for the celebrations of Eid.
Chand Raat signifies the ending of Ramadan by abstaining from food and drinks.
How Eid is Celebrated in Pakistan
On the morning of Eid, people begin the day by attending special prayers in mosques or in open spaces. Everyone wears new or freshly laundered clothes; most make an effort to wear new clothes to pray.
Once the prayers are completed, everyone greets each other by saying “Eid Mubarak” (Meaning Happy Eid) and then visiting family and friends. During Eid, many traditional dishes will be made, such as Sheer Khurma, Biryani, Kebabs etc.
Aside from festive-like cooking, children are generally given cash or gifts by their elders in order to make the day special for them. Additionally, many Muslims will give Zakat al-Fitr to those in need as a charitable contribution during Eid.
Cultural Importance
The celebration of Eid ul Fitr in Pakistan is an event that has both religious and cultural significance. It is a time for families to come together and strengthen their relationships, as well as strengthen the bond between communities. Eid ul Fitr creates a sense of community, and encourages people to show kindness, generosity, and togetherness.
Final Thoughts
The expected date for Eid ul Fitr in 2026 will be March 20; however, the actual date will be determined by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee who observes the moon to determine when to begin this festival. Whatever the actual date of the holiday celebration may be, the meaning behind celebrating Eid ul Fitr will remain unchanged: the way in which Ramadan ends, through happiness, thankfulness, and companionship.
