For many families, Ramadan does not really feel like Ramadan until the dates are on the table. Breaking the fast with a date is a tradition that goes back centuries, and it is still how millions of people around the world end each day of fasting.
Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin in early February, depending on the moon sighting. That means now is a good time to start thinking about which dates you want and how much to order, especially if you plan to share or gift them.
Why dates at iftar?
Breaking the fast with dates is a Sunnah, following the practice of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. There is also a practical side. After a long day without food or water, dates give you natural sugars for quick energy, along with fibre, potassium and water from the fruit. They are gentle on an empty stomach and easy to eat before prayer.
The most popular dates for Ramadan
Medjool
Large, soft and caramel-sweet. Medjool dates are the go-to for many families in Canada because they are filling and easy to love. One or two is often enough to break the fast. Our Palestinian Medjool Dates are one of our most reviewed products, and many customers tell us they now buy them every Ramadan.
Ajwa
Small, dark and soft, with a gentle sweetness and a slightly fruity finish. Ajwa dates come from Madinah and hold special meaning for many Muslims. They are a thoughtful choice for parents, grandparents or anyone who values tradition.
Sukkari
Very sweet and soft, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Sukkari dates pair well with Arabic coffee, which balances out the sweetness. Keep them in the fridge.
Khudri
Firmer and less sweet. A good option if you want something you can eat a few of without it feeling too rich.
Not sure which you will like? Read our full guide to types of dates.
How many dates do you need for the month?
It depends on your household, but here is a simple way to estimate:
- Most people eat 1 to 3 dates at iftar, and some also have a few at suhoor.
- A family of four eating about 3 dates each per day will go through roughly 360 dates over 30 days.
- Medjool dates are large, so that works out to several kilograms for the month.
If you host iftars, share with neighbours, or bring dates to the masjid, plan for more. Buying in bulk is usually the better value. Our 5kg box of Palestinian Medjool Dates is popular for exactly this reason, and it is easy to split into smaller containers for gifting.
Keeping dates fresh all month
Buying early only works if your dates stay soft. A few tips:
- Store dates in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for months this way.
- Freeze what you will not use in the next few weeks. Frozen dates thaw in about 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Take out only what you need for the next few days.
Make iftar a little more special
Plain dates are perfect on their own, but Ramadan is also a time for hospitality. A few ideas for your table:
- Stuffed dates: fill Medjool dates with walnuts, almonds or a little tahini.
- Chocolate covered dates: a beautiful option when guests are coming. Our variety packs give everyone something to try.
- Date and milk: blend dates with cold milk and a pinch of cardamom for a simple suhoor drink.
- Date spread on toast: quick, filling and great for kids at suhoor. Try our date spread.
Gifting during Ramadan and Eid
Dates are one of the most meaningful gifts you can bring when visiting family or friends during Ramadan. A nicely packed box shows care without being over the top.
For Eid, many families move from plain dates to something more festive. Chocolate covered dates, the Pistachio Lovers Variety Box or a mix of dates and chocolate make lovely Eid gifts for hosts, teachers and coworkers.
Planning something bigger, like gifts for your whole office or community event? Our team handles bulk and custom orders. Learn more on our Corporate Gifting page.
Order early
The weeks before Ramadan are the busiest of the year for dates. Popular sizes can sell out, and shipping gets busier as the month gets closer. Ordering a few weeks ahead gives you time to try what you bought and top up if needed.
We ship across Canada, the US and the UK, with next business day delivery in the Greater Toronto Area. Keep an eye on our upcoming Ramadan 2027 collection, and shop all dates to get your table ready.
Ramadan Kareem from all of us at Palm Bites.
