As the crescent moon of 1447 AH hangs over the Canadian horizon, the holy month of Ramadan has officially entered its first week. For the millions of Muslims across the country, the rhythm of daily life has shifted toward the spiritual and communal centerpiece of the month: Iftar.
Derived from the Arabic word for “breaking the fast,” Iftar is the evening meal taken at sunset (Maghrib) to conclude the day’s abstinence from food and water. In 2026, with Ramadan beginning on 18 February, Canadian observers are navigating a winter-to-spring transition that offers relatively moderate fasting windows compared to the grueling 18-hour days of previous summer cycles.
The Ritual: From Dates to Dinner
Following the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad, the fast is typically broken with dates and water, providing an immediate boost of natural sugar and hydration. Across Canada, this ritual is followed by the Maghrib prayer before families and friends gather for a more substantial meal. While the spiritual core remains constant—emphasizing gratitude, patience, and charity—the Canadian Iftar table is a testament to the country’s multicultural fabric.
2026 Timing and Regional Variations
Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, Ramadan moves forward by approximately 11 days each year. This year, the timing is particularly favorable for those in Northern latitudes. According to current astronomical data for 23 February 2026:
- Toronto: Iftar occurs at approximately 6:02 PM.
- Calgary: Iftar is observed at 6:08 PM.
- Vancouver: The fast concludes at 5:49 PM.
In Northern Canada, fasting hours currently range between 11.5 and 12 hours, a significant shift from the “midnight sun” challenges faced when Ramadan falls in June or July.
Dining Out: The GTA and Ottawa Food Scene
The Canadian restaurant industry has increasingly embraced the “Ramadan Economy,” with major hubs like the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Ottawa offering specialized menus for those looking to break their fast away from home.
- Toronto & GTA: Local favourites are offering diverse options. Omni Noodle has introduced a $20 Iftar special featuring noodle bowls and milk tea, while Arbequina in Roncesvalles, led by Chef Moeen Abuzaid, is drawing crowds with a refined Ramadan tasting menu. For those seeking late-night options, Levant Pizza and Slider Station remain popular for both Iftar and Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal).
- Ottawa: The capital’s culinary scene is equally active. Agha Restaurant on Merivale Road is serving a dedicated Turkish Iftar menu nightly, while Sultan Suleyman Turkish Cuisine on Carling Avenue has become a go-to spot for traditional Anatolian flavours.
A Tool for Community and Dialogue
Beyond the meal itself, Iftar in Canada has evolved into a significant platform for interfaith dialogue. “Community Iftars” are being hosted by mosques and community centres from Halifax to Victoria, inviting non-Muslim neighbours, politicians, and local leaders to share a meal. These gatherings serve to demystify Islamic practices and foster social cohesion during a time of heightened global reflection.
As the month progresses toward the final ten nights, the focus will shift from the celebratory nature of Iftar to the spiritual intensity of Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power), culminating in the festival of Eid al-Fitr in mid-March.