Ramadan is the Islamic holy month and this explains how Muslims observe it.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is marked by daily fasting from dawn to sunset and increased worship, charity and community gatherings; the first day is expected around Feb. 18–19, though the exact start may vary by local declaration.

Observant Muslims around the world prepare to mark Ramadan with daily fasting, prayer and increased charitable acts. The month is a time for religious reflection and communal meals that break the fast each evening. Ramadan follows the lunar calendar and its start traditionally depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, so dates can differ by country and community. This year the first day is expected on or around Feb. 18 or 19 and it coincides broadly with Ash Wednesday in some calendars. Key points: - Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and moves through the seasons as the lunar cycle shifts. - Observant Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from all food and drink during daylight hours; the daily fast is broken at iftar and a predawn meal is called suhoor. - Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam; the month is also associated with increased prayer, Quran reading and acts of charity. - There are exemptions for those unable to fast, such as for illness or travel, and missed fasts for temporary reasons are made up later, as reported. - Social and cultural practices vary widely: examples include lanterns and mesaharati drumming in Egypt, regional rituals in Indonesia such as Meugang and river cleansing, and communal iftars and interfaith gatherings in places like the United States. - Ramadan concludes with the holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the month of fasting. Summary: Ramadan brings both religious practices and a range of cultural traditions across different communities. The month emphasizes fasting, prayer and charity, and while it is expected to begin around Feb. 18–19 this year, the exact start will be determined by local Islamic authorities and is undetermined at this time.