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As London is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, with no less than 300 languages spoken on the capital’s streets every day, you are likely to encounter festivals and celebrations whenever you pay a visit.

If you happen to find yourself in London around the 11th or 12th of August, you do so as the capital’s Islamic population is celebrating Eid-ul-Adha, or Qurbani to give its other name. This is the second of the two Eids celebrated by Muslims, the first of which is Eid-ul-Fitr which comes directly after the holy month of Ramadan and marks the breaking of the fast.

Eid-ul-Adha is the ‘Feast of Sacrifice’ and is the larger of the two Eids, so it should come as no surprise to learn that there will be events happening in London to mark the occasion. If you are interested in learning more about this religious festival, then please click here where you can read about how and why Muslims traditionally celebrate Qurbani.

Where Can I Celebrate Eid in London?

No doubt there will be many unofficial parties taking place across London where both Muslims and non-Muslims will have the opportunity to join in the festivities together.

Eid in The Park

If, however, you truly want to appreciate the magnitude and importance of this festival you can get yourself down to Eid in The Park, taking place on either 11 or 12 August (depending on the sighting of the moon) all day between 9am and 6pm. Held at White Hart Lane, the event has something for everyone who attends, such as ice cream, food, drink, Qur’an recitals and Eid prayers.

On top of all of that, there will also be a funfair open from 9.45am consisting of rides that kids (and big kids) will absolutely love. Entry to the fair is £2 (free for under-3s) and promises to make for a fantastic family day out.

Inclusive Eid-ul-Adha 2019

As well as Eid in The Park, there will also be another event held on either 11 or 12 August at The Wesley Euston Hotel & Conference Venue between 9.30 am and 1pm. As the name infers, this is an inclusive event designed for everyone to come and join in the festivities, open to both Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

The event will offer vegetarian and vegan breakfast options, prayers and a sermon. Entry and food are free, so if you are looking for the perfect way to mark Eid-ul-Adha, or just to simply learn more about the festival, this will make for a fantastic event.

Islam in London

When you consider that 21% of England’s Muslim population live in London (as per the 2011 national census), equalling more than 600,000 residents, it comes as no surprise to learn that Islamic festivals are a big deal in the city. There are 478 mosques in London, some catering to far larger numbers than others and many of which do open their doors to non-Muslims to come and visit.

Islam is also the second most followed religion in London (third if you include those who don’t consider themselves to follow a religion) with a Muslim population of 12.4%. In contrast, 48.4% of London’s population is Christian (including Catholicism) and 20.7% are atheists.