Celebrate Eid ul-Fitr in London
In a week’s time, approximately two billion Muslims will be celebrating Eid ul-Fitr – meaning festival of sweets – to mark the end of the fasting month known as Ramadan. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, and the dawn-to-dusk month-long fast is usually carried out by all able-bodied Muslims. Eid ul-Fitr is one of the two Eids and lasts for three days, with the other being Eid ul-Adha, which is celebrated after Hajj (another pillar of Islam). This celebration is a wonderful opportunity for great food, gifts, and time spent with friends and family!
Muslims typically start the day by attending morning Eid prayers and making a generous donation to charity, known as Zakat ul-Fitr, before visiting relatives and friends. During these visits, you can expect a warm welcome and generous servings of food, as households often prepare extravagant spreads and delightful desserts. Moreover, guests will commonly leave with their pockets lined with Eidi (Eid gifts).
While home celebrations have traditionally been the norm, there has been a recent rise in Eid festivals across London. These events provide an excellent alternative for those who may not have the opportunity to visit home. Below are some of the best festivities to celebrate Eid in London.
Eid in the Square, Trafalgar Square
For 18 years, the Mayor of London has hosted an annual Eid in the Square Festival in London to mark the end of Ramadan. This year, the festival will take place in Trafalgar Square and will feature an exciting assortment of activities and entertainment.
Speakers will include notable figures such as Shelina Janmohamed and Mariah Idrissi. Attendees can enjoy demonstrations showcasing dhol drummers, Indonesian dancers, women’s fencing, and Qawwali. Additionally, a variety of delicious street food stalls will be available, offering everything from OshPaz Uzbek food to Berlin doner kebab and mini Dutch pancakes. Consequently, there will be plenty to satisfy every palate.
Dates: The festival will run from 12-6pm on Saturday 29 April and is free to enter.
London Eid Festival, Shepherd’s Bush
The London Eid Festival will be returning for the fourth consecutive year, running across three days to accommodate everyone’s schedules. Food enthusiasts can indulge in choices from various stalls, including Philly cheesesteaks, chicken wings, churros, and gourmet burgers. There will also be numerous Eid shopping stalls, a modest fashion catwalk, an Islamic art gallery, henna stations, and face-painting for children, making this an engaging event for all ages.
Dates: The festival runs from Saturday 29 April until Monday 1 May and is free to enter.
Grand Eid Fair, Greenford
The Grand Eid Fair in Greenford offers a fantastic outdoor celebration, particularly suited for families. This event, hosted by Bilal Masjid Trust and My Islamic Celebration, features an array of activities tailored for children, including inflatables, foot golf, rides, and arts and crafts. For adults, there will be a delightful selection of world food and dessert stalls, as well as vendors selling clothes and gifts.
Dates: The fair will occur on Sunday 23 April from 12-6pm and entry is free.
Eid Exhibition
The Eid Exhibition, held just before Eid, is an ideal way to get into the spirit of the celebration. Numerous small Muslim-owned businesses will showcase their products in the Royal Regency Hall, featuring everything from intricate jewellery to designer outfits and Eid decorations.
Dates: The exhibition will take place on Sunday 16 April from 12-10pm and is free to enter.
Ladies Eid Party, Beckenham
If you’re looking to celebrate with the special women in your life, the Ladies’ Eid Party in Beckenham promises a delightful evening. This women-only event will include a welcome drink, tea, snacks, and a full dinner, followed by an entertaining evening with music (featuring a live female DJ), henna, and ethnic boutiques for all your last-minute Eid shopping.
Dates: The party will occur on Sunday 30 April from 5-10pm.
Eid Mubarak!
