Hundreds enjoy Eid festivities in Borehamwood park

Held at Maxwell Park on Monday, the event celebrated the end of the holy month of Ramadan when Muslims have fasted from dawn until dusk.

The event was hosted by the Borehamwood Islamic Society and included prayers and a speech by the Borehamwood Imam who gave messages of solidarity, community, and hope.

Then the Eid party began, complete with an outdoor buffet, a bouncy castle and obstacle course, face painting and more, with hundreds enjoying the festivities during the day.

Amir Choudhury, from the Borehamwood Islamic Society, said: "On behalf of the Muslim community, we want to thank all our friends, neighbours, councillors, faith leaders, police, fire service and all those who attended our Eid celebration.

"Special thanks to those who stayed all the way through and enjoyed an amazing experience after difficult times with Covid now we are celebrating. This watershed moment for the community to celebrate Eid in the park."

He added: "The generosity of the residents of Borehamwood could not be understated. It was a touching moment for all of us to see the whole community celebrating with us. We can't wait to see everyone again at our next celebration."

Rabbi Jeff Berger, who was in attendance, said: "What a wonderful experience celebrating Eid with the Borehamwood Islamic Society on a sunny Bank Holiday Monday.

"It is especially nice to see this young, vibrant, spiritually devoted community growing so energetically. Thank you for such warm hospitality. Wishes of Eid Mubarak."

Borehamwood Kenilworth Labour councillor Dan Ozarow ward councillor added: "The most beautiful thing about the Eid celebration for me was how the non-Muslim children were going up to their new Muslim friends of the same age and wishing them Eid Mubarak and them all enjoying food together.

"We were all received so warmly and it was lovely to see so many smiling faces."