A day long extravaganza celebrating the diversity of Muslim culture will take place on Boxing Day in Wood Green, North London. The Festival of Islam will bring together the very best of British Muslim cultural talent all of whom will bring a uniquely Christmas angle to their performances. Visitors will also have the opportunity to see an exhibition focusing on beliefs, culture and heritage of Muslims.

The Festival of Islam, being held at the Decorium Wood Green, will be an all-day event with contributions from inspirational speakers, music, drama, poetry, shopping stalls and other activities for people of all ages and faiths.

Hasan Sarwar, one of the event organisers said, "The timing is perfect for a celebration such as this. This year, the Muslim festival of Eid ul Adha and Christmas are only days apart. We can use this day to celebrate the festivals of two different communities which will help in building bridges and stronger friendships. We aim to celebrate and promote the shared values between British Muslims and the wider community as well as the cultural diversity of Britain."

The Festival of Islam is supported by the Muslim Council of Britain, Exhibition Islam and Haringey Council. All proceeds from the event will go towards the rebuilding of the Islamic Community Centre (ICC), Tottenham's oldest Muslim community institution. The redevelopment of this landmark will aim to reinvigorate ICC into a Centre of excellence beneficial to all, regardless of faith.

Festival of Islam will take place between 11am to 8pm at the Decorium in Wood Green North London on Wednesday 26th December 2007.

NOTES TO EDITORS

1. The Festival of Islam is a community inspired event staffed by dedicated young local volunteers.

2. Acts include: Shaam, Mecca2Medina, Hamza Robertson, Nazeel Azami and Khaleel Muhammad

3. The Islamic Community Centre is Tottenham's oldest Muslim institution. Established in March 1984 its largest constituent is Masjid Ayesha, renamed from Tottenham Mosque after one of the wives of the holy Prophet Muhammad. The renaming aimed to give a new, inclusive forward looking direction to this unique community initiative.

For further information, email info@festivalofislam.org.uk

or call 020 8809 2137