When is Chand Raat in 2026?

• For Eid-ul-Fitr 2026, Chand Raat is expected to be on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, depending on the moon sighting.
• For Eid-ul-Adha 2026, Chand Raat is expected to be on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, subject to the sighting of the Zul Hijjah moon.

Is Chand Raat a public holiday?

No, Chand Raat is not a public holiday. It is a festive night observed before Eid-ul-Fitr, but the official public holiday begins on the day of Eid.

What is Chand Raat?

Chand Raat, meaning “Night of the Moon,” is the eve of Eid-al-Fitr and marks the end of the month of Ramadan. This festive occasion falls on the night when the new moon is sighted, announcing the start of the 10th Islamic month, Shawwal. It is celebrated with joy by Muslim communities around the world. As the day ends and the eve of the 29th fast arrives, Muslims wait with eagerness during Iftar. If the moon is sighted, it marks the end of Ramadan. If not, one more fast is observed, making Ramadan 30 days. Announcements are made from mosques, television channels, and radio stations — officially declaring Eid and igniting celebrations across cities.

History

Chand ki raat is deeply rooted in the joyous festival of Eid-ul-Fitr, commonly called Meethi Eid. This night becomes a cherished moment in the Islamic religion, as the moon sighting signals the beginning of Shawwal — the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. Depending on the sighting of the lunar crescent, the holy month of Ramadan can be 29 days or 30 days long. The anticipation of this announcement keeps everyone in suspense, turning the sighting into a grand celebration. For Muslims, this moment feels like a reward after a month of patience, fasting, and prayer. That’s why Chaand Raat of Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated with more enthusiasm compared to Eid-al-Adha.

What to do on Chand raat?

Eid Moon

As the sun sets on the 29th fast, families head to their rooftops, anxiously scanning the sky for the Eid moon. The excitement is contagious. Clerics and the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee observe the moon sighting process, while homes are filled with the buzz of people glued to TV sets. When the word spreads that Eid has been declared, the night erupts in celebrations. It feels like finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. Enthusiastic shoppers rush to visit markets for sweets and final Eid shopping. The night becomes magical — Muslims, especially youngsters and girls, express joy by watching the moon, praying, and wishing each other Eid.

Preparations

Preparations for Chand Raat begin early. Girls get beautiful henna designs, and everyone picks out new clothes to wear on Eid. The streets light up as families and friends head out to paint the town red. Cities are dressed in colorful lights and small bulbs. Roads are filled with cars playing loud songs, matching the celebratory mood. Women in glittery outfits, sparkling bangles, and bright smiles add to the spirit of Chand Raat. Even window shopping feels festive as eager shoppers roam from store to store soaking in the excitement.

Colorful Stalls

Markets come alive with colorful Eid stalls offering cosmetics, earrings, and embroidered clothes. Jewelry and colorful dresses hang neatly, drawing children and adults alike. Sellers display bangles and phool jharris, while the rooftops and homes around buzz with activity. The vibrant energy of these stalls truly captures the essence of Chand Raat.

Gatherings & Greetings

The night becomes a perfect time for gatherings. Friends and family members come together to spend quality time, sharing laughter and creating memories. Get-togethers are filled with a wonderful vibe, often decorated with a festive theme. Balloons, cards, and warm wishes flow freely. People greet each other with “Eid Mubarak” and “Chaand Raat Mubarak,” spreading happiness all around.

Food Stalls

Food stalls are packed as people enjoy their favorite dishes after a long day of fasting and last-minute shopping. The aroma of sweet dishes fills the air, both in markets and homes. Everyone enjoys these delicious treats, knowing that the next day is Eid — a time for even more feasting and joy.

Chand Raat Shopping

Chand Raat is all about shopping. The streets and malls are filled with hustle and bustle as people finalize their preparations. From gifts to clothes, jewelry to bangles, and shoes to accessories — everything is bought with enthusiasm. Girls and boys roam around in excitement. Malls glow with arrangements of lighting and music, and shopkeepers do their best to match the joyous spirit of the night. Shoppers smile wide, enjoying every second of this festive rush.