Windsor Castle, one of the UK's most iconic royal residences, opened its doors to host an open Iftar, marking the first such event in the State Apartments' 1,000-year history.
Over 360 guests from diverse faiths and backgrounds gathered in the grandeur of St George's Hall to break their fast on Sunday March 2, in a shared Iftar meal that how now become a powerful symbol of community and inclusion during the Holy Month of Ramadan.
This historic event, organised in partnership with the UK charity Ramadan Tent Project, reflects the Royal Collection Trust's commitment to making its palaces accessible and welcoming to all. "The event has been a fantastic opportunity to welcome people from the local community, and those of all faiths and backgrounds to the castle,” said Simon Maples, Windsor Castle’s visitor director.
The open Iftar took place in the magnificent St George's Hall, a 14th-century space in Windsor Castle that is usually reserved for state banquets and royal events, making it a particularly significant setting for this inaugural Ramadan gathering. Omar Salha, founder of the Ramadan Tent Project, described the experience as "incredibly surreal and poignant," highlighting its role in celebrating community and belonging within Britain's diverse cultural landscape.
This initiative follows King Charles and Queen Camilla's visit to Imad's Syrian Kitchen in London last week, where they met with members of the Syrian community to mark the start of Ramadan. These events underscore a growing emphasis on interfaith dialogue and cultural understanding during the Holy Month.
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Open Iftars - Dates and Locations
Open Iftars have been organised at 18 major venues across the UK this Ramadan, including iconic locations such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, Shakespeare’s Globe theatre, and Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, as well as Cardiff City Stadium and Aston Villa FC's Villa Park in Birmingham. The final open Iftar will be held at Trafalgar Square in London on March 29.
March 4 - Windsor Castle
March 7 - King's College Cambridge & Guildhall at the Great Hall, London
March 8 - Baltic, Gateshead & Lords, London
March 9 - Sheffield Kelham Island Museum & Shakespeares' Globe
March 14 - V&A South Kensington & V&A Dundee
March 15 - Cardiff Stadium
March 16 - AFC Wimbledon & Brighton & Hove Albion FC
March 21 - One Park City & Aston Villa FC
March 22 - Shepard's Bush Market & One City Park
March 23 - Belfast City Hall
March 28 - The Glass Marquee, Blackburn
March 29 - Trafalgar Square
How Can I Attend These Open Iftar Experiences?
These open Iftar experiences are free to attend, but guests must register in advance to reserve their spot. From London, to Belfast, Cardiff and beyond - there are plenty of destinations to choose from to experience this community-focussed Open Iftar for yourself.
Register for your preferred date and location right here.
What is the Aim of Open Iftar?
Open Iftar aims to transform strangers into friends by creating inclusive spaces where people of all faiths (and none) can connect and forge friendships through the unique experience of a shared Iftar.
Since 2013, these Open Iftar events hosted by Ramadan Tent Project, have reached over a million people nationwide, taking place at renowned venues such as the Royal Albert Hall, Wembley Stadium, and Trafalgar Square, in addition to regional gatherings at the Baltic Museum, Bradford’s Centenary Square, Coventry Cathedral, and more. These events emphasise commonalities, celebrate diversity, and foster genuine human connection.
Register for your preferred date and location, right here
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