Ramadan Bayram in Northern Cyprus 2026
In 2026, Ramazan Bayram (Şeker Bayramı, Eid al-Fitr) in Northern Cyprus begins on the evening of March 19, 2026 after sunset, with the first official day of the holiday falling on March 20, 2026. The public holidays typically last for 3 days — March 20–22, 2026. During these dates, government offices, banks, and schools are closed, while some private services operate on a reduced schedule.
- Dates and Duration
- Meaning of the Holiday
- Operation of Services and Businesses
- 2026 Holiday Calendar
- Glossary
- Frequently Asked Questions
Dates and Duration
Ramazan Bayram marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. The dates are determined by the lunar calendar, and therefore shift annually relative to the Gregorian calendar.
In 2026:
- Eve of the holiday (Arefe) — March 19, 2026
- Day 1 — March 20, 2026
- Day 2 — March 21, 2026
- Day 3 — March 22, 2026
Meaning of the Holiday
Ramazan Bayram (Eid al-Fitr) is the Islamic festival of breaking the fast. On this day, believers attend festive prayers at mosques, visit relatives, and give sweets to children. In Northern Cyprus, it is also known as "Şeker Bayramı" — the Sugar Feast.
The holiday is family-oriented: it is customary to visit elderly relatives, make charitable donations, and share food with neighbors.
Operation of Services and Businesses
Government Institutions
Government offices, banks, and schools are closed during official public holidays. Operations resume on the first working day following the end of the holidays.
Municipal Services
Emergency services remain operational 24/7. Utility services switch to an on-call duty mode, especially in major cities such as Nicosia, Famagusta, Girne, and Iskele.
Private Business
Shops, cafes, and restaurants in tourist areas most often continue to operate, although some establishments may open later than usual on the first day of the holiday.
2026 Holiday Calendar
| Date | Event | Status |
|---|---|---|
| March 19, 2026 | Arefe (Holiday Eve) | Evening start of the holiday |
| March 20, 2026 | Ramazan Bayram — Day 1 | Official public holiday |
| March 21, 2026 | Ramazan Bayram — Day 2 | Official public holiday |
| March 22, 2026 | Ramazan Bayram — Day 3 | Official public holiday |
Glossary
- Ramazan Bayram (Eid al-Fitr) — The Islamic holiday marking the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.
- Ramadan — The ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which fasting is observed from dawn to sunset.
- Arefe (Eve) — The day and evening immediately preceding the first day of the holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for Ramazan Bayram in Northern Cyprus in 2026?
The first day is March 20, 2026, followed by March 21 and 22, 2026. The festive period begins on the evening of March 19, 2026.
How many days does Ramazan Bayram last?
The official public holidays last for 3 days.
Are banks open during the holiday?
No, banks and government institutions are closed on the official days of Ramazan Bayram.
Do shops and restaurants close?
Private businesses may operate on a reduced schedule, particularly on the first day of the holiday.
Do the holiday dates change every year?
Yes, because the holiday is calculated according to the lunar calendar, its dates shift every year.
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