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Borough communities prepare to celebrate Ramadan and Eid
Some communities across Test Valley are getting ready to mark the start of Ramadan, a month of reflection, self-discipline, and coming together. For Muslims, it’s a period focused on prayer, kindness, and community support. Families and neighbours gather each evening to break their fast, and many take part in special night time prayers that bring people of all ages together.
Ramadan ends with Eid al Fitr, a celebration that marks the completion of the month. Eid is a time for joy, gratitude, and connection, where those taking part come together to pray, share food, and strengthen the ties that run between generations.
This year, a community led programme that helps people celebrate Ramadan and Eid has received a £500 councillor community grant from Test Valley Borough Councillors. The Silk Route Charity will use the funding to support its Taraweeh and Eid Congregational Community Prayers Programme, which brings people together for daily Ramadan prayers, extended night time prayers during the final ten days, and large Eid gatherings.
Throughout the month, the charity will offer a series of inclusive events designed to support spiritual wellbeing, bring people together, and create a sense of belonging. These include daily Taraweeh prayers, additional late night prayers, and the main Eid congregation, which draws families from across the wider borough.
Events will take place at North Baddesley Village Hall, Toynbee School, and the Pavilion on the Park. Residents from Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh, Chilworth, North Baddesley, Romsey, and Ampfield are all welcome to attend.
As part of their work to strengthen community links, the charity also reaches out to local churches, schools, and community groups to take part in shared moments of connection during Ramadan. Their multifaith Iftaar dinner invites people from a range of backgrounds to come together, meet new people, and learn more about each other’s traditions in a warm and welcoming setting. These events help build understanding, encourage friendships, and highlight the values that so many of our communities share.
Councillors Celia and Alan Dowden awarded the £500 grant, saying; “Ramadan and Eid are important moments for many of our residents. I’m proud to support a programme that brings people together, promotes understanding, and helps create a sense of belonging right across our borough.”
Dr Sanober Nadeem from the Silk Route Charity said; “We aim to create an inclusive space where everyone feels welcome. This support from Test Valley Borough Council helps us deliver safe, accessible, and meaningful activities that make a positive difference to our community.”
This programme is another example of how our communities thrive when people come together. Test Valley is home to many cultures, beliefs, and traditions, and each one adds something valuable to our borough. When we celebrate our differences and learn from one another, we build stronger connections and a kinder, more inclusive community.
By creating spaces where everyone feels welcome, we’re building a borough shaped by respect, understanding, and a real sense of belonging. It’s a reminder that our differences don’t divide us – they strengthen us, and they help create a community where everyone feels seen, valued, and part of something bigger.