Cardiff Correspondent

Sunday 8 February 2026, Cardiff City Stadium was transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, creativity, and community as the Big Halal Lifestyle Expo Cardiff 2026 took place. The event, which ran from mid-morning into the early evening, brought together exhibitors, performers, families, and food lovers from across Wales and beyond to celebrate halal lifestyle, business innovation and cultural diversity in a welcoming environment.

Organised by Big Halal Food Festival, the expo showcased the growing influence and diversity of halal culture in the UK’s events calendar. Entry was free, encouraging broad public participation at a time when interest in halal food, fashion, and lifestyle products continues to surge.

The Expo’s atmosphere was lively from the moment the gates opened. Visitors were greeted by an expansive street food market featuring flavours from around the world — from traditional Middle Eastern favourites to fusion salads, decadent desserts, refreshing mocktails, and artisanal coffee stands. For many, sampling new halal cuisines was a highlight of the day, offering tastes not typically found in standard city centre events.

Beyond food, the event offered a diverse range of stalls and exhibitors promoting halal-certified products and services. Local and national businesses presented everything from fashion and jewellery to art, lifestyle products, and cultural services. These stalls provided a valuable platform for entrepreneurs to connect directly with consumers and for community members to explore new brands and innovations under one roof.

A dedicated live stage served as the focal point for entertainment and education throughout the day. Attendees enjoyed uplifting nasheed performances, light-hearted comedy acts, and expert talks focused on business growth, community engagement, and cultural collaboration. These performances and discussions not only entertained but also reinforced the event’s ethos of inclusivity and shared learning.

Family-friendly attractions ensured that people of all ages had something to enjoy. Children had access to a variety of activities, and the stadium’s open layout made it easy for families to explore at a relaxed pace. Some visitors were also treated to cutting-edge Virtual Reality experiences, adding a modern twist to the traditional expo format.

Organisers described the event as more than a marketplace — it was a celebration of community achievements and cultural pride, reflecting the dynamic place halal lifestyle now holds in Wales’ social calendar. With positive feedback from visitors and exhibitors alike, many are already anticipating next year’s edition.