Celebrating Ramadan, Easter and Community in Luton Town Centre

Ramadan Mubarak to all those in Luton who are observing this special time.

I’m delighted that Luton BID has once again funded the installation of the Ramadan Crescent on Hat Gardens. It’s become a meaningful and much-loved feature in the town centre, and a visible way of showing welcome, reflection and respect for our Muslim communities.

Easter is also just a few weeks away and this time allows reflection on what amazing things are brought to us by our unique mix of cultures. Our activities reflect the inclusive approach we take as a Business Improvement District. It’s about creating a town centre that feels welcoming to everyone, whatever the occasion, and recognising the many different communities who live, work and visit here. That’s not something we can do alone, which is why partnership working is so important. This Easter holidays, I’m really pleased that we’re working alongside Step Forward Luton and Luton Council to deliver activity that brings people into the town centre and encourages them to spend time there. This is following the successful Retro Arcade during half term, a project for which we partnered with Luton Point.

One of the things I’m particularly pleased to see returning is the Parklet on Market Hill. It might seem like a simple addition, but it makes a real difference. It turns part of the town centre into somewhere people can stop, sit and take a moment, rather than just passing through. That extra dwell time helps create a better atmosphere and supports the businesses around it, while also making the town centre a more enjoyable place to be.

The Parklet will also be at the heart of our family-friendly activity over the school holiday period, including the Dragon Egg Hunt taking place on 9 April. I love activities like this because they give families a reason to explore the town centre together. Children can pick up a clue map, follow the trail and discover different areas along the way. We’re also delighted to welcome back the adorable characters Fae and Flurry, who were a big hit last summer and always bring an extra sense of fun and imagination. At the end of the trail, children can hand in their completed maps in exchange for a chocolate egg. There will also be storytelling suitable for all.

By sharing our plans early, I hope we’re giving families something to look forward to while also helping businesses prepare for a busier period. Events like these really do help shape how people feel about the town centre, and I’m looking forward to seeing Market Hill busy, lively and full of families enjoying everything Luton has to offer over the coming weeks.

For more information about Luton BID, visit www.LutonBID.org