Millions of Muslims across the UK are preparing for Eid celebrations at the end of Ramadan.

The exact date hinges on when the new crescent moon is sighted, signalling the end of Ramadan.

London organisers are currently working on the assumption the festival will fall on Friday, March 20.

London prepares for Eid al-Fitr as organisers plan for possible Friday March 20 celebrations. (Image: NQ)

Eid is not a UK bank holiday, so workers are being told to book annual leave early.

Parents are being urged to tell schools if they plan to take children out for prayers and family events.

Schools will usually record the day as a religious observance if parents give enough notice.

Ramadan 2026 start date and fasting times

Ramadan is likely to begin on Thursday, February 19, with the fast lasting 29 or 30 days.

By the final fast, London prayer calendars show suhoor as early as 4.25am.

In the final week, iftar in the capital is expected between 6.07pm and 6.16pm.

Most major city mosques plan their main Eid prayers between 9am and 10am.

Eid al-Fitr prayers and events in London

Large events like 1Eid in the Park at Goodmayes are already advertising 10am prayer slots.

Community Eid events in London advertise family activities as public prayers and festivals are planned. (Image: NQ)

Worshippers are being told to arrive by 9.30am before the traditional takbeerat begins.

In Southwark, the Burgess Park community festival is expected to run from 11am to 7pm.

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The East London Mosque is likely to hold multiple morning prayer sessions between 8am and 11am.

The East London Mosque during Ramadan, as worshippers await details of Eid prayer sessions. (Image: NQ)

Worshippers are being told to check their local masjid’s social media the night before.

A final moonsighting announcement will confirm whether celebrations start the next morning.

Beyond mosque prayers, London Eid Fest is planned for March 21-22, while the 1Eid Festival in Goodmayes Park is provisionally advertised for March 20-22 depending on moon sighting.

Families looking for low-cost activities around Eid al-Fitr have also been offered free or very cheap options such as East London library craft sessions on March 18-19 and informal local Chaand Raat markets.