When is Shawwal 2026?

Shawwal 2026 is expected to begin on March 20, 2026, and end on April 17, 2026, depending on the moon sighting.

Is Shawwal a public holiday?

Shawwal itself is not a public holiday, but Eid al-Fitr, which falls on 1st Shawwal, is widely observed as a public holiday in many Muslim-majority countries.

 What is Shawwal?

Shawwal is the month following the holy month of Ramadan. This time brings opportunity for great reward for worshippers according to the Messenger of Allah pbuh. Muslims often fast the six days of Shawwal, which are voluntary fasts that can be completed at any time throughout the month. These six days serve to redeem shortcomings in the quality of our fasts in Ramadan and, if accepted by Allah SWT, are equivalent to a year of fasting. The first day of Shawwal is when Muslims celebrate Eid Al Fitr, uniting to enjoy the reward of observing Ramadan. This celebration is one of the two annual festivals recognized by Shari’ah, featuring Eid prayer and Sadaqat ul‑Fitr. Shawwal also marks the start of a festive counter season for many, as believers begin the countdown to Hajj activities like Tawaf of Arrival. The counter highlights the beginning of Ash‑hur Al‑Hajj, setting the stage for the Hajj season.

History of Shawaal

Shawwal holds significant events in Islamic history. Celebrating Eid Al Fitr during this month marks completion of Ramadan with Eid prayer, Zakat al Fitr, joy, festivities, and gatherings among family and friends. Shawwal is also the first month of the Hajj season—months leading to Dhul Hijjah—and includes acts like Tawaf of Arrival during Ash‑hur Al‑Hajj. Historic events such as the Battle of Uhud occurred in Shawwal during the third year of Hijrah. The Prophet Muhammad PBUH and his companions faced the Quraysh in this seventh battle, with Muslim forces numbering seven hundred against three thousand horsemen. Martyrdom of Hamza ibn ‘Abd al‑Muttalib happened then; he courageously fought on the front lines and was slain by Wahshi ibn Harb. The Prophet PBUH mourned deeply, calling Hamza “The Lion of God” and “Master of all martyrs.” The birth of Imam Al‑Bukhari in Shawwal (13th Shawwal, 810 CE in Bukhara, Uzbekistan) added scholarly significance. He compiled the authentic Sahih Al Bukhari, second only to the Qur’an in importance. Also, the death of Imam Ja’far Al‑Sadiq occurred on the fifteenth of Shawwal 148 AH in Madinah. As a revered scholar and mujtahid, he influenced figures such as Imam Malik, Abu Hanifa, and Sufyan al‑Thawri. Throughout, Muslims may use a festive counter and countdown tools to mark these spiritual milestones and remember the enduring legacy tied to Shawwal.