‘Follow the true essence of Ramadan’ with nightly prayers, family iftars around Texas
Ramadan is more than abstaining from food — it is a call to balance body and soul, deepen intention, and strengthen bonds with God and community.
Texan Muslims, joined by believers all over the world, began fasting for Ramadan on Wednesday,
More than just a period to observe fasting and abstain from activities that nullify the fast, the month of Ramadan is a time for self-realisation and self-improvement - both spiritually and physically, according to scholars.
Speaking to Oman Daily Observer, Dr Mohammed bin Said al Maamari, Minister of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, urged people to follow the true essence of the month as taught by the religion.
“Islam is a religion of balance, and it encourages us to balance everything around us. Therefore, Ramadan conveys the message of balancing our physical and spiritual lives,” he told the publication in Muscat.
“It is a month that helps to reform and start a new chapter for human beings in their connection with Allah. Therefore, the goal of Ramadan is to increase spirituality and balance spiritual well-being with our relationships with others and with Allah,” he added.
Shaikh Abdurahman, a scholar and preacher, explained, “The month of Ramadan is based on a set of principles that make a person strong and compassionate. It involves strict daily fasting from dawn to sunset, including abstaining from food, drinks (including water) and smoking, with the aim of spiritual growth, self-discipline and empathy.
“It is also a time to show gratitude to the Creator and demonstrate empathy towards those less fortunate.” Hatim Abdisslam, another scholar, emphasised that the foundation of the entire process is intention, with the rest built upon it. “Intention (Niyyah) is crucial, as it is a conscious, internal commitment to fast, which leads to increased worship through reciting the Holy Quran and performing Taraweeh prayers.” He also highlighted the importance of self-reflection and discipline, avoiding negative behaviours like gossiping, lying, or fighting, and engaging in acts of charity by giving to the poor and needy.
Scholars also recommend following the essential principles for those fasting:
· Stay hydrated by drinking 2-3 litres of water between sunset and dawn.
· Consume nutrient-dense foods like dates, high-fibre foods, fruits, nuts and proteins to sustain energy.
· Eat balanced meals by avoiding excessive fried or salty foods to prevent thirst and indigestion.
· Increase focus on worship, especially in the last ten days.
Ramadan 2026 in Texas: Key Highlights
Start and Observance
Ramadan in Texas began around February 18, 2026, with the first fast observed on Wednesday, February 18, and is expected to conclude around March 19, 2026, followed by Eid al-Fitr. Dates may vary slightly depending on local moon sighting and masjid announcements.
Community Events and Activities
Immersive Ramadan Market: Major events are taking place across Texas, including the “Immersive Ramadan Market” with the theme “Fragrance of Faith.” These markets offer a curated experience with food, shopping, and cultural activities, especially in Houston.
Festive Bazaars: The “Ramadan Festive Bazaar 2026” in Sugar Land (Houston area) is a large community event featuring vendors, food, and family-friendly activities. It’s scheduled for February 28, 2026, at Haidery Banquet Hall.
Nightly Programs: Youth organizations like American Muslim Yo (Houston) are hosting nightly programs from February 26 to March 12, featuring lectures and Quran recitations by renowned scholars and reciters.
Masjid Activities: Mosques across Texas, such as the Islamic Center of Irving and MAS Dallas, are offering daily prayers, Taraweeh, community iftars, Quran literacy programs, and charity drives. Many centers also host outreach programs and food drives for those in need.
Fasting and Worship
Fasting hours in Texas this year are moderate, ranging from about 12 to 13.5 hours, depending on the city. The daily routine includes Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), five daily prayers, Iftar (breaking fast at sunset), and Taraweeh (night prayers).
Special focus is placed on Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power), observed during the last ten nights of Ramadan, and Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory charity given before Eid.
Charity and Outreach
Community organizations are running food drives, outreach programs, and charity initiatives to support families in need, both within the Muslim community and the broader public.
CAIR-Texas has called on ICE facilities to ensure religious accommodations for Muslim detainees during Ramadan, including meal schedules and access to religious materials.
Special Considerations
This year, Ramadan overlaps with Lent and Lunar New Year, offering opportunities for interfaith dialogue and community engagement.
Texas is home to a large and vibrant Muslim community, with more than 300,000 Muslims statewide. The month is marked by increased spirituality, reflection, and community bonding.
Sports and Daily Life
Muslim athletes, such as University of Houston basketball players, are balancing fasting with their sports commitments, highlighting the dedication and adjustments made during this period.
How to Participate or Stay Updated
For event details, prayer times, and community announcements, platforms like ConnectMazjid and local mosque websites provide real-time updates and resources.
Many events are open to the public, and non-Muslims are welcome to join community iftars and cultural celebrations.