London, United Kingdom – February 15, 2026 — The annual Ramadan lights display has returned to the heart of London's West End for its fourth consecutive year, once again transforming Coventry Street into a vibrant symbol of inclusivity and celebration as the Muslim holy month approaches.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan officially switched on the installation on Friday evening, joining community leaders, faith representatives and hundreds of onlookers to mark the occasion. More than 30,000 energy-efficient LED lights will illuminate the street nightly from 5:00 pm to 5:00 am local time throughout Ramadan, which is expected to begin on February 28 and conclude on March 30, 2026 (depending on moon sighting).
The centrepiece of the display spells out “Happy Ramadan” in elegant, glowing lettering across the pedestrianised section of Coventry Street, near Piccadilly Circus. In the days following Eid al-Fitr, the message will automatically change overnight to “Happy Eid,” continuing the tradition established in previous years.
The project, organised by the Ramadan Tent Project in partnership with Westminster City Council and the Mayor’s Office, has grown steadily in scale and public recognition since its debut in 2023. It is widely recognised as the United Kingdom’s first and largest dedicated Ramadan public lighting installation and has become a popular destination for both Muslim and non-Muslim Londoners.
Speaking at the switch-on event, Mayor Sadiq Khan said:
“London is a city where people of all faiths and none come together to celebrate what matters most — family, community and generosity of spirit. These beautiful lights are a powerful reminder that every Londoner, whatever their background, belongs here and can feel proud of their identity. Ramadan Mubarak to everyone observing the month.”
Public response has been overwhelmingly positive. Heather, a Londoner in her 60s, told Anadolu Agency while photographing the display:
“I think it is great that we can celebrate all faiths and be totally inclusive in London. It is brilliant, really nice, really nice to see. All nationalities and faiths are here in London, and I like seeing everyone celebrate it.”
Dylan, an 18-year-old Christian who visited with Muslim friends, shared a similar sentiment:
“As much as I believe that England is a Christian country, I also think that London is a very diverse city. Maybe sometimes we don’t agree with someone, but as a Christian, I believe we should at least have the respect to let people think what they want to think. I’m Christian. I have Muslim friends here with me today. It’s just all about friendship. And that’s how I see it.”
Ramsha, a young Muslim resident of London, expressed how meaningful the display is for the community:
“There are a large number of Muslims in London, and seeing our tradition and religion be celebrated makes us feel very included, and it’s very pretty to look at. I even come and see the Christmas lights, and I believe lots of non-Muslims also come and see the Ramadan lights, because it just looks nice and it makes you feel happy. For people who don’t know about Ramadan, this is a good way for them to know that … it’s a festival for Muslims going on right now.”
The initiative has also received cross-party support at Westminster City Council and has been praised by interfaith organisations for promoting mutual understanding in one of the world’s most religiously diverse cities. London is home to an estimated 1.3 million Muslims — roughly 15% of the capital’s population — making it one of the largest Muslim communities in Western Europe.
Organisers report that the lights have become a popular backdrop for family photographs, social media content and tourist visits, contributing to footfall in the West End during the traditionally quieter pre-spring period. The display is fully funded through sponsorships, donations and contributions from local businesses, with no direct cost to the public purse.
The Ramadan Tent Project, which spearheads the lights and several accompanying community iftar events, has stated that the installation is deliberately placed in a busy, secular part of the city to reach the widest possible audience and foster conversations about Ramadan’s values of charity, reflection and community.
As Ramadan approaches, the glowing message over Coventry Street serves as both a visual welcome to observant Muslims and a gentle invitation to the wider public to learn more about the month of fasting, prayer and spiritual renewal.
With the lights set to shine for the full duration of Ramadan and transition to Eid greetings in late March, the display is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors and once again affirm London’s reputation as a global city that proudly celebrates its multicultural identity.
