What is the evening meal that breaks each day’s Ramadan fast called?

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The evening meal that breaks each day’s Ramadan fast is called iftar.

Iftar begins after sunset, when the daylight fast ends. In many Muslim communities, people traditionally break the fast with dates and water before eating a larger meal, although local customs and menus differ around the world.

The timing of iftar changes daily because sunset occurs at different times as Ramadan progresses and because it varies by location. Mosques, families, and community groups often organize shared iftar meals.

Iftar is not the same as suhoor: suhoor is eaten before dawn, while iftar is eaten after sunset. The meal may also be associated with charitable hospitality, as people invite relatives, neighbours, and guests to share food.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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