London’s Piccadilly Circus has been illuminated once again with an impressive light installation to commemorate Ramadan, marking the third consecutive year of this annual display. The installation features 30,000 LED bulbs shaped into Islamic geometric patterns and symbols, suspended above the West End street. London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, inaugurated the event on Wednesday, joined by various dignitaries and celebrities.
The 2023 inauguration of the Ramadan lights marked a significant moment as it was the first time a Western European city had made such a grand gesture for the Islamic festival. Muslims around the world observe Ramadan by fasting from dawn until sunset as a form of celebrating and reflecting on their faith.
This year’s lights include new features like an interactive installation in Leicester Square and a ‘halal-friendly iftar trail’ at local dining spots. Khan, reflecting on the significance of the lights, remembered how, as a child, he and his parents would see the Christmas lights at West End. He expressed incredulity at the thought that within his lifetime, London would celebrate Ramadan with lights, akin to Christmas celebrations.
Rahima Aziz, a trustee of the Aziz Foundation which sponsors the installation, shared her excitement for the project, seeing it as a symbol of being part of a city that she has always called home and representing British Muslims, emphasizing unity and education. The event also included a lantern parade, with participation from local schools and residents, highlighting the inclusive and communal aspect of the celebration.
The lights will continue to illuminate Piccadilly Circus until the end of Ramadan on April 21, after which a ‘Happy Eid’ sign will replace the ‘Happy Ramadan’ greeting for two more weeks to celebrate the end of the holy month. This initiative is seen as not just a festive occasion but also an opportunity to educate and foster community understanding and support, addressing the rise in anti-Muslim hate reported recently.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/mar/01/ramadan-display-lights-up-piccadilly-circus-in-london
