If you’ve noticed a sudden spike in online activity or lights flickering on in your neighborhood long before the sun comes up, you aren’t imagining things. The term “Fajr” has skyrocketed in US search trends this week, leaving many outside the loop scratching their heads. Is it a new tech launch? A viral game?

The answer is far more ancient—and it involves millions of Americans racing against the clock before the first light of dawn.

The Dawn Disconnect

Fajr is the Arabic word for “dawn,” referring specifically to the first of the five daily prayers in Islam. However, this week’s surge in interest is driven by the start of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, which began for most US Muslims on the evening of February 17 or 18, 2026.

During Ramadan, observers abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset. This makes the exact timing of Fajr critical: it marks the strict cutoff point for Suhoor, the pre-fasting meal. The frantic searches for “Fajr time” aren’t just about prayer; they are a logistical scramble to drink that last glass of water or finish a high-protein meal before the window closes.

The Science of the Schedule

Unlike the solar calendar used for standard US timekeeping, the Islamic calendar is lunar. This means Ramadan shifts backward by about 10 days each year.

• Winter Advantage: In 2026, Ramadan falls in February, meaning shorter days and cooler temperatures for North American observers compared to the grueling summer fasts of the past decade.
• The “False Dawn”: A common misconception is that fasting begins at sunrise. In reality, it begins at true dawn (Fajr), which can occur 75 to 90 minutes before the sun actually crests the horizon. This distinction drives the intense search volume, as apps and timetables vary slightly by location.

The Cultural Ripple Effect

The impact of this early morning routine extends beyond the household. In cities with high Muslim populations like Dearborn, Michigan, or parts of New York City and Houston, the “Fajr economy” is real.

Local 24-hour diners and late-night cafes often see a surge in patrons known as the “Suhoor rush” between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM. Meanwhile, health blogs are buzzing with tips on “slow-release carbs” and hydration strategies to sustain energy through the daylight hours. As the month progresses, the trending query usually shifts from “When is Fajr?” to “When is Maghrib?” (sunset)—the signal that it is finally time to eat again.