Families flock to Dhaka’s Eid fair for shopping and fun

A two-day Eid fair is underway at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon, featuring over 200 stalls offering food, clothing, cosmetics, and various other products. Since morning, the fair has drawn large crowds, with families enjoying shopping, capturing moments through photos, and soaking in the festive spirit.

The fair has been organised by Dhaka North City Corporation.

Mokbul Hossain, public relations officer of DNCC, said, "This is the first time the city corporation has organised such a fair for Eid."

He said the fair features over 200 stalls run by SME entrepreneurs from various sectors. Priority has been given to stalls offering food products, jewellery, toys, and similar items. Additionally, to entertain children, the fairground includes puppet shows, a Ferris wheel, and various play equipment.

Children, in particular, are delighted by the puppet and cartoon-themed displays. Parents expressed their appreciation for the unique arrangements, while vendors also enjoyed the enthusiastic response from visitors.

Rezaul Hasab, a private job holder who attended the fair with his daughter, shared, "Because of my job, I couldn't travel to my hometown for Eid. But even though I couldn't go home, I'm experiencing a vibrant Eid here in Dhaka with my children. They are thrilled, especially with the Sultanate-era puppets."

He added, "Events like these are fantastic for children's cognitive development, as they provide a fun way to learn about history."

Ayesha Afrin, who brought her nephew to the fair, commented, "This year, Eid feels very safe. We usually celebrate Ramadan Eid in Dhaka, and this time, the experience has been truly special."

Tanha Tabassum, a student, visited the fair in the morning with her parents and younger sister. She said, "Previously, there weren't such celebrations during Eid. The joy of Eid was mostly limited to family gatherings. But this time, things feel different. I'm really enjoying it."

Vendors at the fair also shared their excitement.

PJ&M Creations, a business specialising in children's clothing and jewellery, is participating in the fair. Its owner, Jharna Costa, said, "Regardless of sales, I feel happy. I've been running my business for 12 years and regularly participate in different fairs. However, this is my first time attending one specifically for Eid."

Rana Miaji of Nurunnabi Pitha House, who was selling fresh juices, expressed his amazement, "Celebrating Eid with such a massive crowd is unbelievable. We can hardly keep up with the demand for juice. Although I'm not with my family, I'm celebrating Eid with everyone here, and it's a wonderful feeling. I hope we have more events like this in the future."