Thousands of people descended onto Trafalgar Square today in the countdown for ‘breaking the fast’ which marks the final day of Ramadan. London was alive with the colours of Arabic art, the smell of delicious cuisine and the sound of world music – bringing the spirit of Islamic culture to this year’s Eid Mubarak.
Hosted by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, the free event is in its 11th year and will end with a spectacular fireworks display later tonight. The Mayor of London, who was introduced on stage by presenter Konnie Huq, shared a selfie on Twitter with huge crowds in the background.
He wrote: “How’s this for a selfie! Londoners of all faiths and backgrounds celebrating Eid in Trafalgar Square.”
This year, the end of Ramadan was marked in the central London square with a celebration of the achievements of Muslim women. Alongside music and food from around the world, there was also a bazaar-style market with stalls from grassroots Muslim groups.
Mr Khan said ahead of the event: “This year’s Ramadan has been one of the longest fasts in over 30 years. Although it has been quite challenging, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the past month, my first Ramadan as the Mayor of London. “It has been a great opportunity to bring together London’s many communities – to me, that’s what Ramadan is all about.”
He said: “It is now more important than ever to unite as Londoners and extend our hands of friendship in light of the EU referendum, the recent surge in hate crime and the terrible atrocities in Istanbul.”
