Today (April 21) marks the end of Ramadan, with Eid-al-Fitr celebrations commencing across London and the world. And, on April 29, one of the largest gatherings to mark Eid is taking place in the capital, as Eid In The Square returns for its 18th year.
Last year, Eid In The Square made its grand return to Trafalgar Square for the first time since 2019 due to the pandemic, and the free celebration is set to be just as lively this time around.
What is planned for Eid In The Square in 2023?
To celebrate Eid-al-Fitr, Trafalgar Square will host a roster of events to mark the end of Ramadan, the holy month in the Muslim calendar which involves fasting throughout the hours of daylight.
This year’s theme supports Mayor Sadiq Khan’s “Love For Everyone” campaign, which focuses on family and bringing communities together for the celebrations.
Expect to see the large main stage in full swing once again: it will be hosted by Ali Official and Mariah Idrissi, showcasing a meld of both traditional and contemporary acts on stage. The likes of MoYah, The Khan Brothers Qawwali Group, Silk Road Collective, FaceSoul and many more will be taking to the stage throughout the day. The grand finale will feature a flash of colour in the form a parade filled with those dressed in stunning costumes for Eid to the sound of Dhol drummers.
Plus, all the entertainment comes alongside a plethora of food stalls from around the world, including Indian street food from Mr Bombay, Somali delights from Hooyo East, and Venezuelan dishes from Pabellon.
Stalls aren’t limited to food, though. Head over to the North Terrace to check out the Desi Doll Company, Islamic Art Prints, London Muslim Health Network and much more.
Eid In The Square is an event for the whole family, taking place between midday and 6pm. There will also be an array of activities from calligraphy to storytelling to mehndi to face painting and poetry workshops.
Sports activities, including fencing sessions held by Muslim Girls Fence are also due to take place. New Crescent Society will also be on hand to run workshops on the UK Eid moon. Read about the activities on offer at Eid in the Square here.
Every Muslim are also hitting Eid In The Square this year to mark their tenth anniversary in the form of a photographic exhibition, audio histories and family heritage workshops. You can even bring your own photos to scan and include in their archive.
Eid In The Square takes place on April 29 between midday and 6pm at Trafalgar Square.