Birmingham has one of the most diverse and exciting food cultures in the country. The city is famous for everything from beef burgers to curries – much of which is halal. Muslims make up 1/5th of Birmingham’s population and the city is one of the most halal-friendly cities in the UK. So it feels like the perfect place to host this completely halal food festival.
The Halal Food Festival will debut at Birmingham’s NEC on Spring Bank Holiday weekend. This two-day event expects to see over 20,000 attendees across May 25 & 26, sampling halal cuisine – offering tasty treats as diverse as Islam itself. With over 150 exhibitors and outdoor street food vendors, as well as an indoor exhibition with Muslim lifestyle stalls and entertainment, it’s going to be a jam-packed weekend.
“Being able to host The Halal Food Festival is like a dream come true bringing friends and families together to socialise, eat and celebrate the Halal lifestyle,” Said Bilal Khan, festival director. “We encourage all walks of life to join us to learn a little more about our integration into the UK. It is also a great opportunity for us to champion Halal businesses, hoping to take them from being small start-ups to leading enterprises in their respective fields.”
Showcasing the global breadth of halal food, last year’s street food vendors included Afrikana, Malaysian Street Food, Myos Japanese Fusion, The Dutch Fishmen, Cleopatra from the Middle East, artisan hot dogs by Malik Butchers and Birmingham’s very own ‘Home of the Smash’, Phat Jo’s.
Elsewhere, the main arena will play host to your Halal lifestyle brands ranging from fashion and jewellery to Islamic art and charitable causes. While an artisan market showing off small businesses will also stock fine delicacies, home décor, arts and crafts, fashion and beauty items. Plus, celebrity chefs, such as Homemade Savouries by Sara, will host live cooking demonstrations. And Tiktok sensation Mr Tee will also host.
To learn more about The Halal Food Festival head here.