Ramadan & Eid 2023: six events in Birmingham celebrating Islamic culture

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslim people around the world will be fasting during daylight hours. During this period, followers of the faith abstain from things that are considered impure, according to Islamic law.

However, at the end of the month comes Eid, when gifts are exchanged, people take up charitable activities, and socialise. It’s a period of celebration and families and communities would feast together.

Muslim people living in Birmingham would also take part in the fasting and the festivities later. And, there are several events taking place around the city to bring the community together.

From interfaith Iftar meals to artisan markets - there’s much going on to bring communities closer. Here are six events in Birmingham in 2023 that are taking place to celebrate Islamic culture:

1. Human Rights Iftar - Birmingham - March 30

Organised by Amnesty International and the local Muslim community in Balsall Heath to raise awareness of human rights issues, this event will include engaging discussions and an iftar meal. This event will include discussions on Palestine, Kashmir and the Uyghurs in China.

People or all faiths and those of none are welcome to join in for the evening at Anderton Park Primary School, Dennis Road Balsall Heath. Registerations are open and can be done on Eventbrite.

2. Unity Iftar - April 1

The UKIM Sparkbrook Islamic Centre & Masjid is hosting a Unity Iftar which will be open to people of all faiths to celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan and enjoy the goodness of Ramadan by opening the fast with them and taste the delicious food. Family and friends are welcome to join the evening of peace and tranquility.

It will take place at UKIM Sparkbrook Islamic Centre & Masjid on April 1. It’s free to enter but registeration is recommended. You can register on Eventbrite.

3. Artisan market - April 2

At this pre- Eid market, several artisan brands will be showcasing their products, including handcrafted things. During this family-friendly event, there is a free arts and crafts table available for children to keep them busy. Businesses from all backgrounds are welcome.

From bouncy castles to henna artists to Eid decor items - everything will be available. You can also book a Halal food tasting experience. This is taking place on April 2 at Broadway Acadamy in Perry Barr. You can register for free on Eventbrite.

4. Eid Bazar - April 15

A family-friendly Eid market will be taking place on April 15 at Regents Park Banqueting Hall. It’s perfect for Eid shopping and is free to enter. There will be modest clothing, jewellery, decor, sweets and a lot more available at this market. Registeration can be done on Eventbrite.

5. AMI Interfaith Big Iftar 2023 - April 15

Al-Mahdi Institute in association with Near Neighbours has invited people of all faiths to join them and share a meal to break the fast (Iftar). The evening will include talks by local organisations about the work they do for the community.

The interfaith Big Iftar will take place on Saturday 15th April 2023 at 6:45pm to 9:00pm at Al-Mahdi Institute, 60 Weoley Park Road, Birmingham.

Attendance is by registration only.You can register for it on Eventbrite.

6. Eid Mehfil - Qawali Night - April 29

UK’s Leading Qawwal Group will be performing at this Qawali night. Qawali is a musical performance of Sufi Muslim poetry and is popular in South Asia.

There will be a special appearance by BBC2’s ‘Back in Time for Birmingham’ presenter Noreen Khan as well, and the evening will be hosted by YouTuber Jay Sheikh and comedian Salman Malik. The exciting Qawali night will be hosted at Bia Lounge, Golden Hillock Road, Birmingham.