One of Sydney’s most popular and vibrant cultural events is back.
Attracting more than 1.4 million visitors last year, Ramadan Nights Lakemba will return on Saturday 9 March-Monday 8 April.
Lakemba’s Haldon Street will be transformed into a bustling bazaar every Thursday-Sunday from 6pm-3am during the holy month, with more than 70 local businesses serving up traditional cuisines from across the globe.
With tantalising flavours from Indonesia, Pakistan, Lebanon, Turkey, Cocos Islands and more, it’s the perfect destination to enjoy a delicious and diverse range of foods, and for many Muslims to break their fast together.
Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek said people of all backgrounds are welcome at Ramadan Nights Lakemba.
“From its humble beginnings of a single street barbeque, Ramadan Nights Lakemba is now one of the best places in Australia to celebrate and experience Ramadan,” Mayor El-Hayek said.
“It’s a special place for Sydney’s Muslim community to come together, and a culturally eye-opening experience for non-Muslims alike.
“With more visitors than the Sydney Royal Easter Show, there’s no doubt it’s an event of state and national significance.
“Ramadan Nights is a wonderful showcase of our multicultural community celebrating together in harmony.
For more information, visit
Ramadan Nights – Lakemba (nsw.gov.au)
About Ramadan
Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year in Islamic culture. It commemorates when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
During the month of Ramadan, people of Muslim faith fast during daylight hours, from dawn to sunset.
At the end of each day, Muslims gather for Iftar – the evening meal to break their fast. Fasting, or ‘Sawm’, is one of the five pillars of Islam.
The Five Pillars of Islam are the core beliefs and practices of Islam:
- Shahadah: The declaration of faith;
- Salah: Prayer – praying five times each day;
- Zakat: Alms – giving, or giving money to charity or those in need;
- Sawm: Fasting during daylight hours for the month of Ramadan; and
- Hajj: Making a pilgrimage to Mecca once in one’s life.
Getting to Ramadan Nights Lakemba
Haldon Street is easily accessible by public transport, with the T3 Bankstown Line bringing you to the heart of the event at Lakemba Station. Please note, buses will replace trains if there is trackwork. For more information, visit transportnsw.info/alerts
A free shuttle bus from Campsie and Roselands, brought to you by Western Union, will operate every Thursday-Sunday, 6.30pm-12.30am.
Road closures and detour routes will be in place every night and street parking is limited.
How to avoid the crowd
Visitors who are planning to come with family, or just want to avoid the crowds, are encouraged to come along early in the evening, as stalls are open from dusk.
Keep in mind
Ramadan Nights Lakemba is a significant event for the Muslim community and respect is key. It is an alcohol-free event and it is recommended to dress modestly. While it is an outdoor event, bringing pets is not recommended.
Ramadan Nights Lakemba has been recognised and funded by the NSW Government.
This event is proudly sponsored by Western Union and SBS and supported by Sydney Water, MySat and Dessert Boxes.