Bristol Diverse Doors Open Day 2025 🗓 🗺

Celebrating Faith, Culture and Harmony.

Date: Sunday, 16th November 2025
Time: 9.00 am – 5.30 pm
Location: Various places of worship across Bristol

Bristol Multi-Faith Forum (BMFF) is delighted to announce this year’s Bristol Diverse Doors Open Day, taking place on Sunday, 16th November 2025, as part of the UK Inter Faith Week.

This much-loved annual event celebrates the rich religious and cultural diversity of Bristol and the West of England region, giving people the opportunity to explore different places of worship, learn about one another’s traditions, and strengthen community understanding. Bristol Diverse Doors Open Day gives individuals and communities the chance to experience and learn about each other’s cultures and beliefs, and offers the opportunity to visit a range of places of worship and discover many faith communities.

Over the years, Bristol’s Diverse Doors Open Day has become a unique tradition in Bristol, with many faith communities welcoming visitors into their sacred spaces. Everyone is welcome to join the Multi-Faith Trail, a unique journey coordinated by the Bristol Multi-Faith Forum in cooperation with local faith communities.

The 2025 Multi-Faith Trail will include visits to a Buddhist shrine, a Greek Orthodox Church, an Evangelical Christian Church, a Muslim Mosque, a Sikh Gurudwara, a Jewish Synagogue, a Hindu Temple, and a Baha’i Centre.

The trail will begin at 9.00 am from the BMFF office at Barton Hill Settlement, 43 Ducie Road, Bristol (BS5 0AX), and conclude at 5.30 pm. BMFF will provide a scheduled minibus tour (prior booking required via email).

Distinguished guests, including His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant, the Lord Mayor, the Police Commissioner, councillors, civic dignitaries, community leaders, university students, and members of the public from all walks of life, are expected to join the day’s programmes. Bristol Multi-Faith Forum requests that various government agencies and businesses support the Diverse Doors Open Day programmes.

BMFF kindly asks all participants to respect the customs and practices of each place of worship during the visits.

How to Join

Seats for the guided minibus tour are limited. To reserve your place, please email: info@bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk

More details and updates will be available on the BMFF website: https://bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk/2025-bristol-diverse-doors-open-day/

We warmly invite you, your family, friends, and colleagues to take part in this year’s Bristol Diverse Doors Open Day. Come and experience the flavours of faith, culture, and community harmony that make Bristol so special. Let’s celebrate UK Inter Faith Week 2025 together, in a spirit of peace and friendship.

Contact:
Bristol Multi-Faith Forum
43 Ducie Road, Barton Hill, Bristol, BS5 0AX
📧 info@bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk
🌐 www.bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk

Bristol Multi-Faith Forum is an organization established in 2004 by the Bristol City Council for inter-faith community cohesion and inter-cultural social harmony, and to promote community well-being. 

Harmony Buffet Lunch Party 2025

The India-Pakistan Harmony Buffet Lunch, organised by Bristol Multi-Faith Forum, was gracefully held with great success at ZaZa Bazaar in Bristol on Sunday, 17th August 2025. The event was a vibrant celebration of unity, friendship, and cultural diversity, jointly marking the Independence Days of India and Pakistan, and spreading the message of community cohesion. This kind of harmony celebration, bringing together both Indian and Pakistani communities together is very special and unique to Bristol, conveying the message of harmony to the rest of the world.

The gathering saw enthusiastic participation from people of all faiths, cultures, and communities across Bristol. Guests joined with zeal, enjoying not only the diverse multi-cuisine buffet but also the rich cultural programmes that showcased music, dance, and traditions from both nations. The guests were all welcomed with refreshment drinks and light snacks, and there were many networking opportunities.

The event began with a warm welcome speech by the Chairman of the Bristol Multi-Faith Forum, Mayor Emeritus Councillor Tom Aditya, who emphasised the importance of peace, dialogue, and community cohesion in the multicultural city of Bristol as well as in the West of England region.

The event was graced by His Majesty’s Vice Lord Lieutenant of Bristol, Mr Lee Williams; the Right Honourable Lord Mayor of the City and County of Bristol, Councillor Henry Michallat; the Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Andrew Warney; Councillor Raj Sood (South Glos); and Councillor Sibusiso Tshabalala (Bristol). In their speeches, they praised the thoughtful interventions and meaningful service by the Bristol Multi-Faith Forum for social harmony and the BMFF’s efforts to bring both the Indian and Pakistani communities together in Bristol. They also applauded the spirit of togetherness demonstrated at the Harmony Lunch and encouraged continued efforts to build bridges across communities.

The audience was captivated by the melodious singing by  Ms Alphons Theres, Mr Shahid Mahmood, and Mr Azam Chisti, as well as the distinct and delightful Bollywood and classical fusion dances by Mrs Monisha Mohan, Ms Samyukta Megeri, and Ms Ayushi De. The rhythmic Thiruvathira group dance by the Kerala ladies team (Mrs Shyamala, Mrs Rajani, Ms. Mekhana, Ms. Sreelakshmi Sudhakaran, and Sreenandana) further enriched the cultural celebrations. The National Anthems of India, Pakistan, and the UK were solemnly sung distinctively with a patriotic spirit by the participants, making it a truly international event.

Mrs Janet Kirk, Ms Gina Smith (Commonwealth Society), Mr Daniel Randell (Church of Latter Day Saints), Mrs Keren Durant (Jewish Synagogue), Mr. Arif Khan (Council of Mosques), Mr. Afzal Shah (Grand Iftar), Mr Mazhar Iqbal (Pakistan Association), Mr. Pankaj Pandya (Hindu Temple), Mr Mohindra Choudhary (Punjabi Forum and Sikh Gurudwara), Mrs Monira Chowdhury (Bangladeshi Community), Mrs Michelle Meredith (Black South West Network) and Mrs Rajani Sree (UK Pravasi Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam) felicitated Bristol Multi-Faith Forum and conveyed their greetings to the gathering.

The Harmony Buffet was also the culmination of the South Asian Heritage Month, making it a special celebration. The event promoted unity, peace, and community cohesion across Bristol’s diverse communities. The joyful atmosphere, lively conversations, and shared celebration created a true sense of fellowship. Participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to come together, relax, and celebrate harmony.

Advocate Tripti Megeri, the Secretary of the Bristol Multi-Faith Forum, gave the vote of thanks to all the guests of honour, performers, and participants for joining and making the event a memorable success. Bristol Multi-Faith Forum extended sincere gratitude to the kind support of organisations such as the Bristol Commonwealth Society, Bristol Pakistani Community, the Indian Community of the West of England, and the UK Pravasi SNDP Yogam, as well as the management and staff of ZaZa Bazaar, to make the event an inspiring occasion.

For pictures and videos of the event, please click the Bristol Multi-Faith Forum’s Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/BristolMultiFaithForum/

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Archive: Event Information published on the 16th of June 2025

🌸Harmony tastes better when shared 🌸

🌸 Welcome Drinks and 🧁 Light Refreshments at 11 am.

🕊️ Symbolic Cultural Unity Rituals: A candle-lighting ceremony for peace

  • National Anthems of India, Pakistan, and the UK.
  • Children’s flag exchange/ ribbon-tying ceremony to symbolize friendship

🍛 A Lavish Multi-Cuisine Buffet: The venue: Zaza Bazaar is one of the largest multi-cuisine buffet restaurants in the UK, with an exciting 1000-seats space offering a world of culinary adventure with over 300 dishes across the globe and a wide variety of delicacies from different cuisines, especially from South Asian, Far East, Caribbean, Tex Mex, American and European. You can choose from as many dishes and sweet treat desserts as you can enjoy. On Sundays, they have a special extra medley of exclusive ethnic dishes including Biriyani, Dosa, Uttapams, Cholle Poori, Kadhi Rice, Keema, Rasam, all-day English breakfast, and Sunday carvery. In addition, the specialist chefs will cook the dishes of your liking at the live cooking stations too. Delight in the vibrant flavors of India and Pakistan, from fragrant biryanis and kebabs to fresh chaats, curries, and sweet treats—all lovingly prepared to celebrate the distinct and shared culinary heritage of these two nations.The South Asian food stall at ZaZa Bazaar uses only halal meat, and there are no mixed meats in that counter. However, it does not apply to other food counters. In addition, as a matter of BMFF hospitality policy, we won’t serve any alcoholic drinks at our events.

🎶 Diverse Music,🕺 Dance & Cultural Highlights.

🎼Curated Music Playlist that reflects harmony and shared heritage, such as:

  • Instrumental fusion – Tabla meets acoustic guitar, sitar with piano
  • Popular classics – Songs from Bollywood and Lollywood golden eras
  • Independence anthems – Instrumental or softly played versions of:
    • “Sare Jahan Se Achha” (India)
    • “Dil Dil Pakistan” (Pakistan)
  • Contemporary South Asian artists

💃 Dance Performances: Celebrate shared and unique styles from both cultures, such as:

  • Bharatanatyam – Classical Indian dance that tells stories with gestures
  • Thiruvathira: A traditional rhythmic Kerala woman’s dance
  • Bollywood fusion – A modern, fun blend of various Indian dance styles. At the end to build connection—maybe even a Bollywood-Bhangra mashup for all ages!

🕊️ Moments of Reflection & Unity: With brief words of peace, shared stories, and an open space for connection, we celebrate what unites us.

🎶 Cultural Ambiance: Enjoy soft music, colorful decor, and a warm atmosphere reflecting the soul of the subcontinent.

🧣 Traditional Attire Showcase: Guests to show their cultural dress:

  • Sarees, salwar kameez, lehengas, kurtas, sherwanis, dupattas
  • Celebrate the diversity with a short “Unity in Fabric” fashion walk or display

🎉 Dress Code: Feel free to wear traditional attire, festive colors, or simply come as you are.

The India and Pakistan Harmony Buffet is a symbolic expression of the friendship that must exist between the Indian and Pakistani communities, as well as amongst the Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Bahai, Jewish, Parsi, humanist faith traditions, and all communities.
At a time when togetherness matters more than ever, we gather to embrace a shared future rooted in respect, dialogue, and community spirit.
Whether you are seeking a midday reset, mindful nourishment, or a chance to reconnect with your community, this event is designed to be more than just a meal—it is a moment of restoration and unity.


Bristol Multi-Faith Forum (BMFF) cordially invites all people of goodwill, living, working, or worshipping in Greater Bristol /the West of England region, to join the “India-Pakistan Harmony Buffet 2025” and to herald the message of peace and harmony amongst communities. If you or your organisation, wishes to be a stakeholder or contribute towards the event or perform a cultural programme at this event, please feel free to email us. Please send your names via email to info@bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk and book the seats as soon as possible. If you would like to support us financially, please email us, and we will share our bank details. We thank all people of goodwill for joining this friendship initiative and buffet lunch. Our acknowledgement and gratitude to all. Let’s all be part of the message of harmony and friendship.

Join us for the India- Pakistan Harmony Buffet Lunch. Nourish, Connect, Restore.

With warm regards,

Cllr Tom Aditya
Chairman, Bristol Multi-Faith Forum.

  • Mohindra Singh Choudhury, Adv. Tripti Megeri,
  • Afzal Shah, Mazhar Iqbal,
  • Mrs Shehnaz Dar, Arif Khan.

Facilitators- Harmony Buffet.

Bristol Multi-Faith Forum (BMFF) is an equality organisation instituted by the Bristol City Council in 2004 to lead inter-faith community cohesion and inter-cultural social harmony activities in the region and to promote community well-being. BMFF is active as an inter-faith community cohesion forum in the West of England region.

Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1408377200210036/

Bristol Multi-Faith Forum Calendar 2025

Recognizing religious holidays and holy days, regardless of the religion is crucial for fostering an inclusive community life. Our Interfaith Calendar 2025 is designed to assist organizations in acknowledging a diverse array of religious holidays and festivals. This inclusive approach not only supports respectful scheduling but also promotes a culture of understanding and respect.

Please note that the list we have shared below doesn’t include every holiday but is a sampling of some religious holidays that you should be aware of when scheduling important meetings or events. 

January 2025 Holy Days

January 6 – Christian: Epiphany
Celebrates the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus.

January 6 – Sikh: Guru Gobind Singh Gurpurab
Celebrates the birth of Guru Gobind Singh, the Sikhs’ 10th master and teacher.

January 7 – Coptic Orthodox Christian: Christmas
Marks the birth of Jesus Christ according to the Julian calendar.

January 14 – Hindu: Pongal
A harvest festival thanking the Sun God for the agricultural abundance.

January 14 – Buddhist: Mahayana New Year
Celebrates the Buddhist New Year in Mahayana traditions.

February Religious Holidays Calendar

February 2 – Pagan and Wiccan: Imbolc*
Celebrates the beginning of spring and the goddess Brigid.

February 2 – Christian: Candlemas
Commemorates the presentation of Jesus at the temple.

February 15 – Buddhist: Parinirvana
Marks the death of Buddha and his attainment of final Nirvana.

February 26 – Hindu: Maha Shivaratri
A major Hindu festival celebrating Lord Shiva.

March Inclusive Religious Calendar

March 1 – Islamic: Ramadan begins*
A holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims.

March 5 – Christian: Ash Wednesday
Marks the beginning of Lent, a season of fasting and prayer.

March 14 – Hindu: Holi

The festival of colors, celebrating the arrival of spring. This is one of the most known Hinduism holy days.

March 14 – Sikh: Hola Mohalla
A Sikh festival featuring martial arts, poetry, and community gatherings.

March 20 – Baha’i: Naw-Ruz*
The Baha’i New Year, celebrated with joy and festivities.

March 31 – Islamic: Eid al-Fitr*
Marks the end of Ramadan, celebrated with a feast and prayers. On one of the most important Islamic holy days.

Zero Discrimination Day – March 1
Observed by the United Nations, Zero Discrimination Day promotes equality and addresses the discrimination faced by individuals worldwide, fostering a more inclusive global society.

Employee Appreciation Day – March 7
Employee Appreciation Day is a chance for organizations to recognize and celebrate their employees’ hard work and dedication, building morale and fostering a positive workplace culture.

International Women’s Day – March 8
International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements of women worldwide while advocating for gender equality and women’s rights, bringing attention to critical issues that women face globally.

International Day to Combat Islamophobia – March 15
This day addresses and raises awareness about Islamophobia, encouraging global communities to work together against prejudice, promote inclusivity, and support Muslim communities.

April Diversity Calendar 2025 Highlights

April 10 – Jain: Mahavir Jayanti
Celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism.

April 12 – Jehovah’s Witnesses: The Memorial of Jesus’ Death
Commemorates the death of Jesus Christ.

April 13-20 – Jewish: Passover*
Celebrates the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery.

April 14 – Sikh, Hindu: Vaisakhi
Marks the Sikh New Year and celebrates the spring harvest.

April 20 – Christian: Easter
Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

International Autism Acceptance Day – April 2
This day promotes understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals on the autism spectrum, focusing on recognizing their unique strengths and contributions.

Gold Star Spouses Day – April 5
This U.S. observance honors the surviving spouses of military members who lost their lives in service, recognizing their sacrifices and supporting their resilience.

International Day of Pink – April 9
This day stands against bullying, homophobia, transphobia, and all forms of discrimination, with communities worldwide encouraged to wear pink in solidarity. It’s a call for inclusivity and respect, fostering awareness and support for a safer, more accepting world.

Earth Day – April 22
Earth Day raises global awareness about environmental protection, inspiring action to combat climate change, reduce pollution, and promote sustainability. It’s a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the planet for future generations through conscious, everyday choices.

Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day – April 24
This day commemorates the lives lost during the Armenian Genocide, honoring the heritage and resilience of Armenian communities worldwide. It serves as a call for reflection, understanding, and recognition of historical injustices to prevent future atrocities.

May 2025 Religious Holidays

May 1 – Pagan and Wiccan: Beltane*
Celebrates the peak of spring and the coming of summer.

May 5 – Buddhist: Buddha’s Birthday
Celebrates the birth of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism.

May 12 – Buddhist: Vesak
Commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha.

May 16 – Jewish: Lag BaOmer*
A festive day marking the end of a plague during Rabbi Akiva’s lifetime.

May 28 – Baha’i: Ascension of Baha’u’llah*
Commemorates the passing of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i Faith.

Day for Awareness of Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls – May 5
This day brings attention to the high rates of violence faced by Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit people. It advocates for justice, awareness, and action to address these ongoing issues within Indigenous communities.

Cinco de Mayo – May 5
Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over France at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, symbolizing resilience and pride. It has become a celebration of Mexican heritage, marked with cultural festivities and events.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day – May 9
This day recognizes the sacrifices and resilience of military spouses, who support their families and communities through the unique challenges of military life. It’s a day to show appreciation for their strength and dedication.

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia – May 17
This day promotes equality and fights against discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community globally. It’s an opportunity to stand up for inclusivity, raise awareness, and foster a culture of acceptance.

June 2025 Holy Days

June 2-3 – Jewish: Shavuot*
Celebrates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai.

June 5-9 – Islamic: The Hajj*
An annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, mandatory for all Muslims.

June 7-10 – Islamic: Eid-al-Adha*
Commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son.

June 8 – Christian: Pentecost (Whit Sunday)
Commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles.

June 19 – Roman Catholic: Feast of Corpus Christi
Celebrates the Eucharist, the body and blood of Jesus Christ.

Loving Day – June 12
Loving Day commemorates the 1967 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Loving v. Virginia, which struck down laws banning interracial marriage. It’s a celebration of love, equality, and the right to marry regardless of race.

International Day of Countering Hate Speech – June 18
This day raises awareness about the harm caused by hate speech and promotes action to counter it through dialogue and education. It encourages unity and respect, aiming to create safer, more inclusive communities worldwide.

International Autistic Pride Day – June 18
Autistic Pride Day celebrates neurodiversity and the unique perspectives and talents of autistic individuals. It’s a day for acceptance and understanding, promoting respect for autism as a natural variation of human experience.

Juneteenth – June 19
Juneteenth marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and is celebrated as a day of freedom, resilience, and remembrance. It honors Black history and culture, with festivities, education, and reflection.

World Refugee Day – June 20
World Refugee Day recognizes the courage and contributions of refugees worldwide who have been forced to flee their homes. It’s a reminder of the need for compassion and support for displaced individuals, advocating for their rights and protection.

July Interfaith Calendar

July 5 – Islamic: Ashura*
Marks the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali and is observed with mourning.

July 9 – Baha’i: Martyrdom of the Bab*
Commemorates the execution of the Baha’i co-founder.

July 23 – Rastafarian: Birthday of Haile Selassie*
Celebrates the birth of the Ethiopian Emperor, revered in Rastafarianism.

July 24 – Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: Pioneer Day
Commemorates the arrival of the first Mormon pioneers in Utah.

August 2025 Religious Festivals Calendar

August 1 – Pagan and Wiccan: Lughnasadh*
Celebrates the beginning of the harvest season.

August 15 – Roman Catholic: Feast of the Assumption
Celebrates the assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven.

August 16-17 – Hindu: Krishna Janmashtami
Celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna.

August 21 – Jain: Paryushana begins
Marks an important Jain festival focused on fasting and forgiveness.

August 27 – Hindu: Ganesh Chaturthi
Celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesh.

Purple Heart Day – August 7

Today, remember Americans who have been wounded in battle, have done courageous acts while at war or who gave their life for our freedoms. Purple represents bravery and courage and it is the oldest military decoration presented to service members in the United States. It was first created by George Washington in 1782.

International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples – August 9

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples hopes to raise awareness about the rights and contributions of indigenous populations worldwide. Today, start a dialogue about the indigenous communities and society by understanding the challenges they face such as marginalization.

Women’s Equality Day – August 26

This day remembers the passage of the 19th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution in 1920, which gave women the right to vote. Celebrate the achievements of women in history this month. Remember the ongoing struggle for gender equality and women’s rights every day.

International Day of People of African Descent – August 31

This day was established by the United Nations to celebrate the rich heritage and contributions of people of African descent worldwide, and to promote the full inclusion of people of African descent in all aspects of society. It also aims to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance that people of African descent face globally.

Major Religious Holidays for September

September 5 – Islamic: Mawlid al-Nabi*
Celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.

September 11 – Coptic Orthodox Christian: Nayrouz
Marks the start of the Coptic New Year.

September 22 – Pagan and Wiccan: Mabon*
Celebrates the autumn equinox and the second harvest.

September 23-24 – Jewish: Rosh Hashanah*
The Jewish New Year, a time of reflection and renewal.

September 28-October 2 – Hindu: Durga Puja
Celebrates the goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.

October Interfaith Holy Days

October 2 – Jewish: Yom Kippur*
The holiest day in Judaism, dedicated to atonement and repentance. This is one of the most important Jewish high holy days.

October 7-13 – Jewish: Sukkot*
A week-long festival celebrating the fall harvest.

October 20 – Hindu: Diwali
The festival of lights, celebrating the victory of light over darkness.

October 22 – Baha’i: Birthday of the Bab*
Celebrates the birth of the Baha’i co-founder.

October 31 – Pagan and Wiccan: Samhain*
Celebrates the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter.

November World Religion Calendar

November 1 – Christian: All Saints’ Day
Honors all saints, known and unknown.

November 2 – Christian: All Souls’ Day
Commemorates all the faithful departed.

November 21 – Eastern Orthodox Christian: The Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple
Celebrates the presentation of Mary in the temple.

November 24 – Sikh: Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib
Honors the martyrdom of the ninth Sikh Guru.

November 30 – Christian: Advent
Marks the beginning of the Christian liturgical year leading up to Christmas.

Major Religious Holidays for December 2025

December 6 – Christian: Saint Nicholas Day
Celebrates Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children.

December 8 – Buddhist: Bodhi Day
Commemorates the enlightenment of Buddha.

December 15-22 – Jewish: Hanukkah*
The Festival of Lights, celebrating the rededication of the Second Temple.

December 21 – Pagan and Wiccan: Yule*
Celebrates the winter solstice and the rebirth of the sun.

December 25 – Christian: Christmas
Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.