Muharram/Ashura marks the beginning of the Islamic year. It refers to the first month of the New Year.
Upcoming Dates For Muharram
Muharram is celebrated on the 10th day of the month. Here are the upcoming dates for the Muharram holiday:
- Sunday, October 1, 2017
- Monday, September 20, 2018
- Monday, September 9, 2019
- Thursday, August 30, 2020
- Tuesday, August 20, 2021
- Saturday, July 30, 2022
- Wednesday, July 19, 2023
- Monday, July 8, 2024
- Friday, June 27, 2025
Where Is Muharram Considered a Holiday?
Muharram refers to the entire first month of a New Year. There is a gazette holiday offered on the 10th day of this month. On the gazette holiday (as listed above), many establishments will be closed. Any government office and post office will be closed. Along with banks. Islamic owned stores will also be closed, as this is an important day. Reduced hours may be offered at select stores as well. Local transportation may be affected by the prayer meetings, parades and marches that are held in celebration.
Festivities & Events During Muharram
Many Muslims will fast for two days during the daylight hours. This fasting will occur on the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and the 11th day of the new year. They will also attend prayer meetings. These prayer meetings are particularly special, being held in mosques or even in private homes. Many Muslim people will observe the day in a different way. For some, it is a time of mourning to commemorate the Battle of Karbala. There may be observations in other places in the world. Although many festivities are only held in India.
A Brief History About Muharram
Muharram is observed by both Sunni and Shia Muslims. Although, Shia Muslims often observe the month as a month of mourning. The 10th day of the Muharram (new year) marks the date when Imman Hussain died. Imman was the Prophet Muhammed's grandson. It's believed he died on this day. The 10th of Muharram is also when it's believed Adam and Even were created. It's also when they believe the Egyptian pharaoh drowned in the Red Sea.