Auburn celebrates diversity with Ramadan Street Festival

Friday, March 15, 2024

Set to illuminate Auburn Road on Saturday, March 16, the Ramadan Street Festival invites the community to celebrate the rich traditions and cultural diversity of Ramadan. This cherished annual gathering not only honors the essence of Ramadan but also strengthens the communal bonds within Cumberland, showcasing the area’s cultural variety during this sacred month.

Cumberland’s Mayor, Lisa Lake, expressed enthusiasm about participating in the communal iftar, emphasizing the festival’s role in promoting peace and kindness. “The festival is a highlight in our council’s schedule, creating a space for Auburn’s residents to engage, socialize, and immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere of Ramadan, right in the heart of our streets,” Mayor Lake remarked.

Highlighting Auburn’s status as one of Australia’s most multicultural locales, Mayor Lake invites everyone from Sydney and beyond to explore and appreciate the cultural richness that defines Auburn. Steve Kamper, the Minister for Multiculturalism, also praised the festival’s capacity to unite diverse communities, recognizing it as a pivotal event for Sydney’s multicultural identity.

Echoing the inclusive spirit of Ramadan, Minister Kamper encouraged everyone to partake in the festivities, breaking fast together and reveling in the communal harmony that the festival fosters.

Promising an authentic Ramadan ambiance, the main street of Auburn will transform into a vibrant outdoor scene, replete with a call to prayer and addresses by community figures. Attendees can look forward to exploring a plethora of food and market stalls, alongside local eateries offering global culinary delights.

Ramadan, observed during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time for fasting, prayer, reflection, and fostering community ties among Muslims worldwide. From dawn to dusk, participants abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and negative behaviors, focusing instead on spiritual growth, compassion, and connecting with the divine.

The pre-dawn meal, Suhoor, begins the daily fast, which concludes at sunset with Iftar. Traditionally starting with dates, Iftar involves sharing a variety of meals, reinforcing the communal spirit and solidarity among families and communities.

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