Ramadan Iftar - breaking fast - community celebration

Councillor Ali Ahmed and members of the Muslim community have invited everyone in Cardiff to join them at two special events to celebrate Ramadan Iftar, breaking fast.

Supported by Cardiff Council, the community events are set to take place outside City Hall on Friday, June 16 and Friday June 23, between 9pm and 10pm.

As part of the Holy Month of Ramadan, Muslims fast during the day, breaking their fast with Ramadan Iftar each night at sundown, and it is customary to invite neighbours to share in the celebrations.

Along with extending an invitation to everyone in the city, the organisers are particularly keen for the community events to benefit some of Cardiff's most vulnerable, and the celebrations have been co-ordinated with the Salvation Army so that homeless people in the city can enjoy a meal and be a part of Ramadan Iftar. A special invitation is also being offered to the refugees resettled in Cardiff.

Describing the reasons behind staging the events, Cllr Ali Ahmed said: "Holy month of Ramadan is about sharing, caring, supporting and donating. Homelessness is a devastating experience which leaves people feeling vulnerable and isolated, so I am delighted to say the support I've received from everyone has been fantastic."

Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, Cllr Lynda Thorne will be speaking at the event on Friday, June 16.

Cllr Thorne, said: "Living on the streets can be a lonely and friendless existence so I'm so pleased that these events will be bringing people from all backgrounds together to connect, for the chance to celebrate Iftar by sharing good food and good company. I encourage people to join us in these celebrations."

A welcome and short prayer will be given at 9pm, after which a rich selection of food prepared by the community will be served for all to enjoy.