Blackburn hosted a lively celebration of culture and community as more than 500 people gathered for the town’s first Ramadan Souk.
Inspired by the bustling markets of North Africa, the free event at Bangor Street Community Centre brought together over 50 stalls offering food, crafts, and family-friendly activities ahead of the holy month, Asian Image reported.
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Organized by Rise and Serve, the free event aimed to recreate the atmosphere of a souk — an Arab marketplace — where families traditionally prepare for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of February 17 or 18.
Visitors browsed more than 50 stalls offering food, handmade crafts, and gifts, while children enjoyed arts and crafts activities and a dedicated day creche.
The main hall was packed throughout the evening, reflecting strong community interest in the town’s first event of its kind.
“It was lovely to see so many stalls,” said Shabaz Ahmed, who attended with his family.
“It got a little too busy at times!
“It was great that they had activities for the kids.”
Ayesha added: “I like the arts and crafts. That was a great idea and also the creche for parents.
“As young kids normally get bored quickly.”
Solidarity
Alongside the celebrations, the event also carried a note of solidarity.
At the entrance, a photograph of seven-year-old Inaayah Makda — a Blackburn schoolgirl who went missing off the coast of Morocco on January 28 — was displayed.
Attendees were invited to make small donations to support fundraising efforts for her family.
Organisers described the evening as a major success.
“We are delighted to share the success of this year’s Ramadan Souk, which brought together our community for a vibrant and uplifting evening of culture, food, and togetherness.
“The event featured a fantastic range of food stalls, local businesses, handmade crafts, and family activities, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout. It was truly special to see so many people come together to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan.
“We would like to thank our MP for his support, as well as local councillors and police officers who attended and helped make the event even more meaningful.
“A heartfelt thank you goes to Tahmeda Qamar , whose dedication and tireless efforts were central to the success of the Ramadan Souk. From planning to delivery, her commitment was outstanding. We also sincerely thank her family for their continued support behind the scenes.
“We are extremely grateful to all our volunteers, stallholders, performers, and partners for their time, energy, and hard work.
“Most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended and supported the Ramadan Souk. Your positivity and community spirit made the evening truly special.”
Bastwell and Daisyfield Ward councillor Rana Khan also praised the initiative.
” I was delighted and privileged to attend the Ramadhan Souk at Bangor Street Community Centre.
“It was wonderful to see the community come together and enjoy such a vibrant event, with a fantastic array of stalls on offer.
“My thanks to the organisers, volunteers, and everyone who attended for making it such a success.”