Islamic New Year

Date shown for 2025 is estimated as the official date has not been finalized as of March 2025.

Islamic new year History

The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. It falls on the first day of Muharram, the first month of the lunar calendar. The Islamic New Year celebration is not as grand as other Muslim festivals like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, but it holds significant importance in the Islamic calendar.

The Islamic calendar starts from the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, which is also known as Hijrah. Hence, the Islamic year is also known as Hijri year. This event marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar, and the Islamic New Year reminds Muslims of the importance of this historical event.

In Canada, the Islamic New Year is celebrated by the Muslim community through mosque gatherings, praying, and fasting. On this day, Muslims reflect on their past and strive for a better future by making resolutions similar to New Year's resolutions. The Islamic New Year is observed on July 23rd this year.

Islamic New Year facts

• Muharram (1st first month of the Islamic calendar), is the holiest month after Ramadan. This month is most recommended by Muhammad to fast and worship in.
• The Islamic method of dating was invented by Umar ibn Al-Khattab, a close friend of Muhammad. He was the second Islamic Caliph (rulers) and in the year 638 he standardize the many calendars of the Arabian peninsula.
• The growth of the Muslim population in Canada accelerated after World War II. As immigration laws became less restrictive, thousands of Muslims immigrated to Canada, mainly from South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa.
• Islamic New Year coincides with the migration of the Islamic prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina, also known as the Hijra.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Islamic New Year

Top things to do in Canada for Islamic New Year's Day

• Muslim parents traditionally tell their children of Muhammad's escape from Mecca to Medina on this night.
• Attend a Islamic New Year Celebration. In Indonesia, the government holds various parades and marches to celebrate the Islamic new year. This includes chanting songs called kidung.
• Consuming dates is a widely-followed tradition in Islam, especially during special occasions. You can serve plain dates, stuffed dates with nuts or cream cheese, or make a simple dessert like date balls or date bars.
• As an important aspect of Islamic teachings, giving to those in need and participating in charitable activities is especially encouraged during the Islamic New Year.