The West End is enjoying its first official Ramadan street lights.
The Coventry Street illuminations were switched on by Mayor of London Sadiq Kahn — himself a Muslim — on 22 March, ahead of Ramadan — expected to begin in London on Thursday.
Said Khan: "I'm delighted that London is the first major European city to host a spectacular light display to mark Ramadan... a true symbol of how our capital celebrates our diversity."
Ramadan is a month-long time of fasting, reflection, prayer and charitable giving in the Muslim community. It begins with the sighting of a crescent moon, and ends with the sighting of the next one, culminating in Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of Sweets).
The 30,000 LED bulbs create a canopy of moons, lanterns, and the motto: Happy Ramadan. They're energy-efficient and use fully-recyclable aluminium frames. They'll be in situ till 21 April.
Aisha Desai, the founder of London's Ramadan lights, said: "As a child, I was captivated by the festive lights every year. As a proud Muslim and Londoner, I not only wanted to bring some of that magic to my community, I also wanted to break the barriers for other creative young Muslims."
Various Ramadan events are taking place across London during Ramadan month, including storytelling and iftars (fast-breaking meals eaten after sunset over Ramadan).
The Ramadan lights will be switched on every evening until 21 April 2023.
