Ramadan 2025: Muslims Across France Prepare for Month of Fasting
This year, Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025, according to the French Council of Muslim Worship (CFCM), which has confirmed the start of the holy month based on the sighting of the new moon. Following Islamic lunar calendar traditions, Ramadan marks the ninth month and is one of the five pillars of Islam, representing a time of reflection, prayer, and community.
This year, Muslims will commemorate the first night of Tarawih prayers on the evening of February 28, as practices show greater religious activity during this month. Tarawih, optional prayers performed after the last obligatory prayer of the day, Isha, draw significant numbers of participants, often leading to crowded mosques. "Every night, we see mosques overflowing, with worshippers standing shoulder to shoulder to pray and listen to the recitation of the Quran,” said Moussa, an imam at one of the larger mosques.
According to the CFCM, the moon sighting is confirmed to be favorable for the beginning of Ramadan, and collective prayers will be observed. The CFCM also emphasized the importance of adhering to the rules surrounding fasting, including exemptions for the elderly, the sick, pregnant and nursing women, and travelers. Such exceptions help accommodate individual circumstances, allowing everyone to participate meaningfully during the holy month.
During Ramadan, Muslims observe three significant moments daily: Suhur (the pre-dawn meal), Iftar (the meal to break the fast), and the Tarawih prayers. The evening meal, Iftar, typically occurs around sunset, with the schedule providing specific times based on local sunset timings. This year, worshippers will begin their fast at approximately 5:12 AM and break it at around 7:16 PM.
The CFCM has set the Zakat El Fitr, the obligatory almsgiving required from each family, at 9 euros per person. This practice underlines the communal spirit of Ramadan, as this charity aids the less fortunate, ensuring everyone can partake in the celebratory meal at the end of the fasting month. The organization encourages Muslims to contribute generously, stating, "Zakat is meant for the needy, regardless of their religious background. It fosters community and compassion," underscoring its necessity during this period.
People are also reminded to maintain proper distinctions between donations intended for mosques and those meant for charitable causes. Funds should be transparently allocated to their intended purposes, allowing for clearer accountability.
Notably, the values and traditions around Ramadan extend beyond mere fasting; they encompass the strengthening of family bonds and community ties. Many people who may not frequent mosques throughout the year come together for prayer during Ramadan, encouraging inclusivity and spirituality. "It is heartwarming to see familiar faces at the mosque, creating bonds of solidarity," said Fatima, who attends Tarawih each evening.
For those who cannot fast due to chronic illness or aging, there is the option of providing Fidya — monetary compensation suggested at rates ranging from 2 to 12 euros per day not fasted. This flexibility fosters inclusivity and compassion for those facing difficulties during this time.
Throughout this month, the call to prayer resonates loudly across the country, particularly on significant evenings like Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Decree, which is expected to occur around March 26, 2025. This night is believed to be when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad and is characterized as being "better than a thousand months," leading many to spend it fully engaged in prayer and reflection.
The festive atmosphere is palpable as neighborhoods prepare for the nightly Iftar, where homes and restaurants alike bustle with activity. Many establishments offer special meals for breaking the fast, with traditional dishes and desserts reflecting rich Muslim cuisines. Restaurants offering Halal options are plentiful, making it easier for families to enjoy communal meals.
Even as the month progresses, the community remains active with engagements and festive gatherings. Both children and adults participate eagerly, learning the rituals and blessings associated with holy events. The conclusion of Ramadan culminates with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, expected to occur shortly after March 29, marking the end of fasting and offering another opportunity for charity and shared feasting.
This Ramadan, as Muslims gather for prayers and harbored reflections, the spirit of community and shared faith take center stage throughout France. It serves as both a solemn time of self-discipline and amplified social bonding, with traditions blossoming anew each year.