Windsor Castle Hosts First-Ever Open Iftar in 1,000-Year History
In a historic first, Windsor Castle hosted an open iftar event, marking the beginning of Ramadan 2025. Over 360 guests from diverse backgrounds gathered in St George’s Hall, a venue typically reserved for state banquets.
A Symbol of Inclusion and Diversity
The event, organized by the Ramadan Tent Project in collaboration with the Royal Collection Trust, aimed to foster community, inclusivity, and cultural exchange during Ramadan. Omar Salha, Founder and CEO of Ramadan Tent Project, described the event as “an incredibly surreal and poignant moment.”
A Historic Venue
St George’s Hall, constructed in the 14th century, hosted its first iftar gathering, marking a significant milestone in the castle’s 1,000-year history. Simon Maples, Visitor Operations Director at Royal Collection Trust, stated that the event was a “fantastic opportunity” to welcome people from diverse backgrounds.
Ramadan Tent Project’s Impact
The Ramadan Tent Project has brought together over 1 million people across the UK through its Open Iftar events. The project promotes community, inclusivity, and cultural exchange during Ramadan.
Additional Events
The Ramadan Festival includes the Ramadan Run Club, which promotes physical activity during Ramadan. The Fast A Day initiative encourages businesses and individuals to host iftar gatherings and raise awareness about Ramadan.
A Memorable Experience
Attendees expressed their gratitude and surprise at being able to break their fast in Windsor Castle. The event was a memorable experience, marking a significant moment in the castle’s history and promoting interfaith understanding and community building.
