The Ramadan night market in Dandenong has grown to become Melbourne's largest, serving as a cultural response to increasing anti-Muslim sentiment following the Bondi terror attack.
As Ramadan begins, Australian Muslims are experiencing intensified racism, particularly after the recent Bondi terror attack. In response to this rising hostility, the Dandenong Ramadan night market has been expanded with federal funding to secure its place as a permanent event in Melbourne's cultural calendar. This market aims to celebrate the rich traditions of Islam and foster community connection amid challenging societal circumstances.
The night market organizers are ambitious, targeting over a million visitors by 2026, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of Muslim culture in Australia. Local businesses are also benefitting from the market's popularity; for instance, Mohammed Ghandour of Balha's pastry shop reported selling an impressive 650 kilograms of knafeh over just three days. This strong turnout demonstrates not only the success of the event but also the community's eagerness to engage positively with Muslim traditions during Ramadan.
Ultimately, the Dandenong Ramadan night market serves as a significant cultural
