In a spectacular world-first, Piccadilly Lights has been illuminated to mark the beginning of Ramadan, transforming one of the world’s most recognisable public screens into a powerful beacon of unity, reflection and belonging.
Delivered by The Aziz Foundation (Registered Charity: 1169558) in collaboration with Heart of London Business Alliance, Landsec and Piccadilly Lights, the entire 783-square-metre screen — the largest in Europe — carried a striking civic message:
“Happy Ramadan — wishing you peace, love, reflection and togetherness.”
For the first time in its history, the landmark display was fully synchronised to mark Ramadan with a unified message, transforming a globally recognised advertising platform into a shared cultural moment.
Timed to coincide with the global commencement of the holy month, the illumination recognised the unique nature of the Islamic calendar. As Ramadan follows the lunar cycle, its start is determined by the sighting of the new moon, meaning communities around the world begin fasting on slightly different days depending on geography and moon-sighting traditions. By the morning of 19 February 2026, Muslim communities worldwide had entered Ramadan, making the London display part of a shared international moment of spiritual renewal.
Positioned at the heart of Piccadilly Circus — which welcomes around 100 million visitors each year — the screen became a message from the UK to a global audience, reflecting the capital’s diversity and its commitment to inclusive public celebration.
The Piccadilly Lights takeover also shone a spotlight on the free, family-friendly Ramadan Lights London programme — fully funded by The Aziz Foundation — visually linking the global broadcast with vibrant community activity on the streets below.
Switched on last week by Sadiq Khan alongside Rahima Aziz BEM, Trustee at The Aziz Foundation, the aerial installations on Coventry Street have become a defining symbol of Ramadan in the capital.
First unveiled in 2023 as Western Europe’s first aerial Ramadan lights display, the installation marked a historic milestone. Since then, it has evolved from a bold idea into a much-loved fixture in London’s cultural calendar, attracting millions of visitors each year and demonstrating how faith, culture and civic life can intersect in a global city.
Inspired by traditional Islamic geometric patterns and celestial forms, the designs symbolise unity and infinity, with symmetry reflecting harmony and balance. Integrated sunrise and sunset motifs mark Suhoor and Iftar, tracing the spiritual rhythm of Ramadan from first light to dusk. Illuminated nightly from 5:00pm to 5:00am, the installation stands as a luminous expression of London’s diversity and global outlook.
Throughout the month, the display will read “Happy Ramadan” until 18 March 2026, before transforming overnight to “Happy Eid” — celebrating the joyful transition from fasting to feasting — with the Eid message remaining illuminated until 24 March 2026.
Natasha Syed is the dynamic Editor-in-Chief of British Muslim Magazine, the UK’s premium Travel & Lifestyle publication catering to Muslim audiences. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for celebrating diverse cultures, she leads the magazine in curating inspiring content that bridges heritage, modern luxury, and faith-driven experiences.
Under her leadership, British Muslim Magazine continues to set the standard for authentic, and engaging trusted narratives, making it the go-to source for Muslim traveler's and lifestyle enthusiasts across the UK and beyond.
