Thousands of people gathered at Burgess Park on Saturday to celebrate Eid al-Adha, the biggest festival in the Muslim calendar.
On a scorching day of 27 degrees, between 3000 and 5000 Muslims, Christians and non-believers kicked celebrations off with a 10am prayer, followed by a day of food and fun activities.
Haija Saidatat Oketunde, Chair of the Southwark Muslim Forum, said: “The event was very inclusive and attendees came from all over the UK for this event. We welcomed everyone from all nationalities, and people of other faith groups to celebrate with us on this joyous day.
“We ensured that despite all our individual differences, we were united as one through our prayer. We aimed to unite the ummah and I believe did just that.”
‘Ummah’ is an Arabic word referring to the global community Islamic people.
This year, Eid-al-Adha is being celebrated from Saturday July 9 to Wednesday July 13. It marks the story of the Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham in Christianity) willingness to sacrifice his son for God, only to be given a ram instead.
After the prayer, families enjoyed henna tattoos, picnics, fresh food stalls, ice cream, and an arts and crafts stall set up by St Peter’s Church, Walworth.
Mother Delorine, Assistant Curate at St Peter’s Church, Liverpool Grove, Walworth, said: “The day was absolutely amazing and for me, it was my first time getting out doing community work after two years of Covid lockdown.
She held a badge-making session which she said “engaged the relationship between Muslims and Christians and showed that, despite our differences, we can still connect”.
Haija Saidat Oketunde added: “There were so many people coming together and the weather was so sunny. People felt warmth through being around other Muslims and celebrating as one ummah. The event allowed for other to remember the importance of a Muslim community – standing together as family”