Muslims across the world marked the end of Ramadan and celebrated Eid al-Fitr last weekend.
Traditionally, Eid prayers begin at sunset on the night the crescent moon is first sighted. Once prayers are finished, Muslims visit their relatives and friends to wish them a happy Eid and often exchange gifts or sweets.
A Luton-based community Radio Station Inspire FM organised the Eid Festive gala celebrations that brought thousands of people together – making it the largest Eid festival in the region.
The Operations Manager Inspire FM Mohammad Tariq said, “We are a broadcast media organisation and have been positively inspiring the community for over 25 years. Our aim was to give the community of Luton an affordable, accessible, and inclusive Eid festival. We remain grateful to many community volunteers, donors, sponsors, and in particular our headline sponsor Luton Rising, for their help and support.”
He added “Over the weekend, we transformed Lewsey Park into a vibrant, family-friendly extravaganza with thrilling rides, fun activities, good food and great entertainment for the community. It was a great opportunity for people to make their Eid memorable at this community festival.”
Luton South & North MPs Rachel Hopkins & Sarah Owen said, “It was great to see the packed Inspire Eid at Lewsey Park. There were lots of small local businesses as well as fun rides, and scarier rides for those braver than us. All the performers on stage welcomed everyone to Inspire Eid and entertained people with their soulful renditions and other presentations.”
“Well done to Inspire FM Luton and all the sponsors for a brilliant, inclusive and fun event for all of Luton!”
Eid al-Fitr is also called the "Festival of Breaking the Fast" which marks the end of the dawn-to-sunset fasting month of Ramadan.
Throughout the month of Ramadan, Muslims donate to charities and contribute to the community’s well-being. According to the Charity Commission, Muslims in the UK give nearly £100 million to charity during Ramadan. Luton Mosques have also supported various projects of community care and well-being, serving hot meals and providing support to the most vulnerable in the town, including refugees and asylum seekers.
Long live the generous spirit of Ramadan and Eid Mubarak to all Muslim friends.
You can watch the BBC Look East coverage of the #InspireEid festival at Lewsey Park on the link below;
At a vibrant, family-friendly Community Eid Festival, Lewsey Farm, besides thrilling rides, fun activities, and good food, the Artists and Presenters entertained thousands of people
At the Community Eid Festival, Lewsey Farm, Mohammad Tariq & Amar Azam of Inspire FM joined by Luton MPs Sarah Owen, Rachel Hopkins and Luton Food Bank Chair Liz Stringer