How to: Lakemba Ramadan Markets

WORDS BY ARSHMAH JAMAL ILLUSTRATIONS BY SAPPHIRE GOLDBERG

Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, which changes slightly every year in relation to the Gregorian calendar, when practising Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, breaking their fast with prayer, food, and friends. Every year during Ramadan, Haldon Street in Lakemba is closed off to accommodate a cornucopia of food stalls, that one random uncle who got his hands on a microphone, and the bustle of crowds.

Last year, there were close to a million people coming to the markets during the month, which was four times the crowd compared to 2019. Due to the growing popularity of the event and a heightened respect for Islamic culture, 2023 is sure to have more. Compiled is a list of ‘underdog’ food stalls for our dear Vertigo readers to visit during Ramadan this year (from around the 22nd of March to the 20th of April)!

Perhaps this is obvious, but please don’t go to Lakemba with the intention of ‘snacking’. Some of the food stalls are only open for Ramadan, so make the most of it!

Bring cash! Most, if not all, of the stalls do not take card. There is an ATM; however, there is always a huge line.

Share the food with your friends! The plastic boxes you get are filled to the brim. If you’re trying to get a bite of everything, it’s best if you share that one box. Otherwise, you’ll fill up quickly!

Don’t drive there. Seriously, use public

To Stall Or Not To Stall