Milton’s renowned Halal Festival recently drew a large crowd from across the Halton region, including visitors from Burlington, Oakville, and Halton Hills. The festival offered a vibrant mix of activities, including a wide array of foods, live performances, eating contests, and family-friendly programming, creating an atmosphere of joy and togetherness.
As home to a significant Muslim population, Milton eagerly anticipated the return of this annual event. Mukamal Khan, a local resident, expressed his enthusiasm: “The Halal Festival is an annual highlight for our community. It’s not just about the food; it’s about coming together to celebrate our culture in a welcoming environment.”
Acting Mayor Councillor Adil Khalqi expressed his delight in welcoming attendees to the Milton Halal Food Festival, stating, “It was an honour to bring greetings on behalf of the Town of Milton. Our community’s strength lies in its diversity, and it was truly remarkable to see so many people come together to support this event.”
Organized by NMTO Inc., the festival is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings. This year’s lineup included popular vendors like Chaiwala of London, HalalMeals, 6Spice Rack, and TUTS, ensuring that attendees who observe halal dietary practices could enjoy the event without concern.
Priya Patel, an Indo-Canadian resident of Milton, praised the festival’s inclusivity: “I love how this festival brings together people from all walks of life. Even though I’m not Muslim, I appreciate the opportunity to enjoy the delicious food and experience the vibrant culture. It’s a celebration that everyone in Milton can enjoy.”
The Annual Halal Food Festival, which has gained both national and international recognition, featured performances by Arab-Canadian artist Ali Soulful, eating contests sponsored by Shan Global Foods, and activities for all ages, including a Princess Elsa storytime for children. The event also supported local businesses through a farmer’s market.
John Reynolds, another Milton resident, emphasized the festival’s positive impact on the community: “The Halal Festival is one of those events that really puts Milton on the map. It’s amazing to see so many people come together to celebrate diversity. This year’s addition of the farmer’s market was a great way to support local businesses.”
In collaboration with Mina, Islamic Relief, and Shan, the festival offered numerous giveaways, contests, and activities, keeping attendees engaged throughout the day. The Annual Halal Food Festival has become a cherished tradition in Milton, bringing together diverse communities in a celebration of food, culture, and inclusivity.
Festival founder Amir Shamsi reflected on the event’s growth: “As organizers, we’re incredibly proud of how the Halal Festival has evolved into such a beloved event in Milton. It’s more than just a food festival; it’s a celebration of our diverse community and the rich cultural heritage that makes Milton so unique. Every year, we see more people coming together, not just from the Muslim community but from all backgrounds, to enjoy the food, music, and camaraderie. This festival is a testament to the power of inclusivity, and we’re thrilled to see it continue to unite and uplift our community.”