Sydney’s Ramadan nights: Feast for all
SYDNEY, Australia (MNTV) – The Australian city of Sydney comes alive at night during the holy month of Ramadan, transforming into a vibrant hub of culture and cuisine.
In the city’s southwest, the annual Lakemba Nights food bazaar brings together visitors from all backgrounds, offering a rich array of Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian flavours.
What began as a small barbecue business by Abdul Obeid two decades ago has evolved into one of Australia’s most popular Ramadan celebrations. In 2024, 1.57 million people attended—nearly double the crowd of Sydney’s famous Royal Easter Show.
The market is more than just a food festival; it has become a bridge between communities. While some argue that the event has moved away from its Islamic roots, Obeid sees its expansion as a positive step.
“People who might never have met a Muslim come to Lakemba and start to understand,” he says.
For local businesses, Lakemba Nights is also a financial lifeline. Chef Mohammed Mureuza of Shahi Dastarkhwan restaurant describes the event as crucial for their economic stability.
“If we do all our business in this month, we have stability for four to six months after that,” he explains.
The event was originally known as Ramadan Nights, but its rebranding to Lakemba Nights sparked controversy. A November 2024 council report found that many local residents opposed the change, though Obeid believes it has made the festival more welcoming.
“It still means the same to me as it did on day one,” he says.
Canterbury Bankstown Deputy Mayor Khodr Saleh emphasises that despite the name change, the festival remains centred on Ramadan.
“We ensured Ramadan stayed at the centre of this event,” he says.
Since its early days in 2009, Lakemba Nights has grown from a small market into an event that celebrates faith, diversity, and social harmony.
“People who are open-minded come here, meet Muslims, and realise we’re just like everyone else,” Saleh adds.
With its ever-growing popularity, Lakemba Nights is not just a food festival—it is a symbol of unity, proving that sharing a meal can break barriers and build lasting connections.
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