Chand Raat Bazaar brings artisans and community together as Ramadan ends
March 24, 2026
Event organizers described it as both a celebration and an invitation for neighbours from across the city to learn about Ramadan and join in
The gymnasium at the International School of Cambridge wasn’t the usual weekday scene of children playing sports Wednesday afternoon.
Instead it was turned into a thriving market to celebrate local artisans, community and culture as Ramadan comes to a close.
The Chand Raat Bazaar was a vendor market and community event which marks the festive eve of Eid al-Fitr, which is the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting observed by Muslims worldwide.
“It is one of the commands of Allah, fasting,” explained Farahzeba Shaikh, program manager for event organizer United Festival Organization (UFO).
Tasneem Chhadiya, CEO of UFO, said Eid is celebrated similarly to Christmas and many people were browsing the stalls shopping the various artisans for clothing, food items, art, toys and more.
Chhadiya said a cultural event that is open to the public is important for others to learn about each other’s cultures and religion.
“They can know how we celebrate Ramadan and Eid … this is a multicultural community event so everyone can join us and they can celebrate,” Chhadiya said.
The idea of learning about other cultures is something MPP Jess Dixon and Coun. Corey Kimpson found beneficial about an event like this as well, along with the bazaar being a fun place to go to.
“It kind of shows just what a cool place Cambridge is, I think we are obviously very multicultural,” Dixon said. “It’s just fun to get out and know who your neighbours are.”
“I find that when we come here and we get a chance to talk to the different vendors, they are so open and willing to share with us what products they sell, where they come from … that helps me to learn more about this community and cultural group,” Kimpson added.
Chhadiya and Dixon both highlighted that many of the vendors and businesses present were operated by youth and women.
“I think it’s really cool that it turns into a highlight on female entrepreneurs in the community,” Dixon said.