Over 200 people attend vibrant Eid picnic in Bedford

Eid festival picnic gathered guests. Image: Rosebuds Bedford Sisters.
Image: Rosebuds Bedford Sisters

An Eid picnic in Bedford demonstrated a community effort to bring “togetherness and joy” to over 200 attendees.

Organised by local mother-daughter duo, Rehana Sahraouei and Imaan Aksu, part of Rosebuds Bedford Sisters, their dedication created an inclusive community collaboration.

Email sign up banner smiley faces

This being the event’s second year, it saw a greater growth in participation, helping to show its success in bringing people together.

During the event, food was shared from an array of different cultures as people were sitting with each other, enjoying the day and the celebration of Eid.

Added to the event, on 14 June, was the inclusion of games being played, spanning from classics such as bean bag races to other sports such as rounders, all with prizes to be won.

This aspect of the event was said to be a highlight among the younger groups who attended. Older groups spoke out on their enjoyment as well, sharing how they feel that “this is what we need every year”.

Rehana Leader of Rosebuds, spoke of her delight at the event’s success, “This is our second year running the picnic, and it was even better this year. It’s amazing to see the whole community come together in such a positive way.”

(l) Marie-Ange Comerford-Raillon with Rehana Sahraouei and Imaan Aksu. Image: Rosebuds Bedford Sisters.
(l) Marie-Ange Comerford-Raillon with Rehana Sahraouei and Imaan Aksu. Image: Rosebuds Bedford Sisters.

Support for the event was seen, with both local businesses such as Ulovemocktails providing fresh beverages, as well as community organisations, including Harpur Trust, Queens Park Community Orchard, and Ilearn.

Morrisons Bedford also helped to add festivity to the event by donating decorative trays, plates, and tissues. Further showing the true and genuine effort to contribute to the event.

Labour Councillor for Kingsbrook Ralley Rahman, who attended with her family and volunteers, praised the event, “I found it very enjoyable, very inclusive, and thoroughly enjoyed the day with families, my grandkids, and volunteers.”

Published as part of our work experience partnership with Kimberley College

Explore more on these topics

Get the latest Bedford news first

Subscribe to our free daily email for our lead story each morning before we publish it anywhere else, plus the key Bedford Borough headlines from the last 24 hours – without having to log into social media.