This weekend brings a special opportunity: the White Days (Ayyam al-Bid) of Jumada al-Awwal 1448 – the 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month, expected on Saturday 24, Sunday 25 and Monday 26 October 2026 (dates may differ by a day based on moon sighting). Here is what they are and why so many Muslims fast on them.
Why Are They Called the "White Days"?
These are the nights when the moon is full or nearly full, so the nights are bright and "white". The days that follow these bright nights are called Ayyam al-Bid – the White Days.
The Sunnah of Fasting Three Days Every Month
The Prophet ﷺ encouraged fasting three days every month. He said that fasting three days of every month is like fasting the whole year (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1979). Because every good deed is rewarded ten times, three days become like thirty – a full month, every month.
Abu Dharr (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet ﷺ told him: if you fast three days of the month, then fast the 13th, 14th and 15th (Jami' at-Tirmidhi 761, Sunan an-Nasa'i 2424).
Is It Obligatory?
No – it is a voluntary Sunnah. You can fast all three days, one or two of them, or other days of the month if these days are difficult for you.
Why the White Days Are Easy in Autumn
In late October, days in North America and the UK are getting shorter. That means shorter fasts – a great time for beginners and for teenagers to practise fasting before Ramadan, which is expected around February 2027.
A Simple Plan for This Weekend
- Friday night: Set an alarm for suhoor and make your intention.
- Saturday and Sunday: Fast together as a family – weekends make it easier.
- Monday: The 15th is also a Monday – another Sunnah fasting day!
- Iftar: Break your fast with dates and water at Maghrib, then pray together.
For Children
Younger children can join with a "half-day fast" until Dhuhr, or help prepare iftar. Make it exciting – let them choose the iftar menu!
Spend the Day with the Quran
Fasting days are perfect for extra Quran reading. Set a family goal – for example, one page per person after 'Asr.
Improve Your Recitation This Month
Want to read the Quran more fluently? Tehfiz-ul-Quran Academy offers one-on-one online classes for all ages, in your time zone. Book a 3-day free trial.