London's Moroccan Jewish community is keeping the tradition of Mimouna alive with vibrant celebrations marking the end of Passover. Held this year in a garden venue near Marble Arch, the event featured traditional sweets, pancakes such as mufletta and msemen, and guests dressed in colourful kaftans. Mimouna begins as soon as Passover ends, welcoming back leavened foods in a spirit of hospitality and togetherness.

Organiser Stephanie Laurent said she launched the celebration in memory of her mother and to raise the profile of the city's small but growing Moroccan Jewish community. While Mimouna is widely celebrated in Israel, France and Morocco, it is still emerging in London. Community members say the number of Moroccan Jewish families in the city has grown significantly over the past decades.

The festival has deep historical roots, reflecting centuries of coexistence between Jewish and Muslim communities in Morocco. Traditionally, neighbours would bring flour at the end of Passover, symbolising solidarity and shared life. Today, London celebrations continue to emphasise open doors, shared food and cultural pride.

Symbolic foods play a central role, including honey for a sweet year, eggs for fertility and coins for prosperity. With music, abundant dishes and days of visiting between families, Mimouna serves as both a joyful reunion and a reminder of the value of generosity and community in a divided world.