For the first time in its 1,000-year history, Windsor Castle’s iconic St. George’s Hall hosted an Open Iftar event, uniting people of all faiths during the holy month of Ramadan.
The event, which took place on Sunday (March 2, 2025), marked a significant milestone in the royal residence’s history, showcasing the values of community, belonging, and inclusion.
The grand halls of Windsor Castle, often reserved for state banquets and prestigious royal functions, were transformed into a space of communal reflection and shared faith as more than 360 guests gathered to break their fast. The event, organized by the Ramadan Tent Project (RTP) with support from the Royal Collection Trust, welcomed Muslims and people of all backgrounds to come together in the spirit of Ramadan.
Attendees were treated to a self-guided tour of the Castle’s magnificent State Apartments before the sunset call to prayer signaled the beginning of the Iftar meal. The hall, with its breathtaking Gothic architecture and intricate tile floors, provided an awe-inspiring backdrop for the evening. The atmosphere was described as surreal by many of those present, with some noting the significance of dining in such a historic and royal setting.
Faith, Unity, and Royal support
The Royal Family’s support for the event was evident, with King Charles reportedly expressing his encouragement for Muslims to break their fast within the walls of Windsor Castle. The significance of the evening was not lost on the attendees, who felt deeply privileged to be part of such a momentous occasion.
“It’s very kind of the Royal Family to open their home to us,” one woman told BBC. Another attendee shared their awe, saying, “We never thought we’d be here breaking Iftar. We’ve come a long way.” For many, the experience was more than just a meal; it was a moment where their Muslim identity merged with the historical significance of Windsor Castle.
One participant, who had studied history at university, reflected on the rare experience: “To actually open my fast in Windsor Castle is not something I ever thought I would do. To mix my Muslim identity with that historical knowledge is a real privilege.”
A Celebration of Cultural Diversity
Simon Maples, Windsor Castle’s visitor director, expressed his pride in the event, emphasizing the Royal Collection Trust’s commitment to making the palaces more inclusive and accessible to all. “The event has been a fantastic opportunity to welcome people from the local community, and those of all faiths and backgrounds to the castle,” he said.
The event also underscored the importance of celebrating cultural diversity, as it was the first time an Iftar had been held in the State Apartments. Omar Salha, founder of the Ramadan Tent Project, called the experience “incredibly surreal and poignant,” adding that it served as a “powerful reminder of how proud we are to represent a pillar of Britain’s rich cultural ecology celebrating community, belonging, and inclusion.”
Windsor Castle’s historic Open Iftar is part of a broader initiative to host such gatherings across the UK. Similar events have already been confirmed at 18 major venues, including the Victoria and Albert Museum, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and Lord’s Cricket Ground. The last Open Iftar of the year will take place at Trafalgar Square on March 29, 2025.
The initiative reflects the growing importance of bringing together people from diverse backgrounds during Ramadan to foster understanding, respect, and shared experiences.