The International Astronomy Center has published a statement identifying the date for Aïd el-Fitr 2025. According to astronomical forecasts, the celebration marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan is expected to occur on Monday, March 31, 2025, in several countries, including Algeria.
This year's Ramadan is predicted to last 30 days, based on astronomical calculations, concluding on March 31. The inability to observe the lunar crescent will lead to the completion of the fasting period for many Muslims. The night of doubt, a term that refers to the night when the crescent moon is typically observed, will corroborate this scenario, although discrepancies might arise in certain regions due to varying observation methods.
Interestingly, a partial solar eclipse is forecasted for Saturday, March 29, 2025, around noon, visible in several North African countries like Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, and Mauritania. This eclipse aligns the sun, moon, and Earth, making it nearly impossible to see the crescent moon on that day from the Arab world. The International Astronomy Center notes that even advanced astronomical imaging technologies will not suffice for detecting the crescent due to this specific alignment.
However, some countries might decide to celebrate Aïd el-Fitr earlier, on Sunday, March 30, 2025. This is because the criteria for initiating the month of Shawwal can differ across nations. For certain regions, especially in North America, it may theoretically be possible to observe the crescent on Saturday evening, although this is highly uncertain to the naked eye.
The Center has urged that the solar alignment on March 29 will prevent any crescent moon sighting in various locations, which means that many Muslims in those areas would likely complete a full 30 days of Ramadan. This situation often rekindles discussions regarding observational methods and the acceptance of visual testimonies concerning the moon sighting.
A scientific emphasis is crucial for lunar observations. In some scenarios, contemporary techniques can capture crescent images even during the day. Nevertheless, due to the astronomical configuration on March 29, detecting the crescent from the Islamic world will be incredibly challenging, thereby reinforcing the likelihood of Aïd being celebrated on March 31.
The celebration unity or divergence remains a perennial topic each year for Aïd el-Fitr due to the varied approaches adopted by Muslim nations. Some lean towards astronomical calculations while others depend on direct crescent observation, often resulting in a day variance among different communities.
Despite these differences, Aïd el-Fitr signifies an occasion of joy and gathering, celebrating the conclusion of Ramadan. Whether it falls on March 30 or March 31, this sacred day will provide an opportunity for Muslims globally to reunite with families, share festive meals, and exchange wishes for peace and prosperity.
Meanwhile, in France, the association Musulmans de France (MF) stated that Aïd el-Fitr will be celebrated on Sunday, March 30, 2025, based on precise astronomical calculations. In an announcement published on March 20, 2025, the MF noted that the conjunction of the lunar crescent will occur on March 29 at 10:58 GMT (11:58 Paris time). According to their findings, the crescent will be visible in some regions that day, solidifying March 30 as the first day of the holiday.
Moreover, Musulmans de France acknowledged the efforts of mosque leaders in accommodating worshippers during Ramadan and highlighted the community's spirit within religious practices. The organization communicated a reminder that Zakat El-Fitr is determined at €7 per person while Fidya (compensatory alms) is set at €5. With Aïd coinciding with a Sunday, MF has urged mosques to facilitate multiple prayer services to ensure broad participation.
“We encourage leaders to make every necessary arrangement so that this celebration occurs under the best possible circumstances,” stated the MF's communication.
As the official confirmation approaches, Muslims across the world are ready to conclude Ramadan and celebrate Aïd serenely, hoping for unity beyond the calendar discrepancies.
