What happens at a mosque open day?
Usually it's a relaxed, friendly event. Visitors are welcomed at the door, shown around, given a short talk about Islam and the mosque, often hear or see how Muslims pray, and then have tea, snacks and time for questions. You don't need to pray, convert or know anything beforehand.
Before you go
Many mosques hold open days or open houses, and they advertise them on their website or social media. In the UK, many mosques take part in the national Visit My Mosque Day. Entry is normally free and often needs no booking, but check the mosque's page in case it asks you to register.
- Wear modest, comfortable clothes that cover your arms and legs. Women may be offered a scarf to wear if they wish.
- You'll take your shoes off, so wear socks that you're happy to be seen in.
- Switch your phone to silent.
See What should I wear to the mosque?
What usually happens
- A welcome: volunteers greet you, show you where to leave your shoes and often give you a name badge or leaflet.
- A guided tour: you see the prayer hall, the area where people wash for prayer (wudu), the library and the classrooms, with each part explained.
- A short talk: a volunteer or imam explains the basics of Islam, the five pillars and what goes on at the mosque.
- Prayer demonstration: some mosques show you how Muslims pray or let you watch a prayer quietly from the back. You are never expected to join in.
- Questions and answers: any question is welcome, from "Why do you pray five times?" to "What do you think about the news?"
- Refreshments: tea, dates, sweets or a light meal, and sometimes a free translation of the Quran to take home.
Asking questions
Open days exist so people can ask. Volunteers are usually happy to explain, and they prefer honest questions to guessing. The Quran says that people were created in different nations and tribes so that they may know one another:
If something sounds unclear, say "Could you explain that?" If you feel shy, you can write your questions on a card or ask a friendly volunteer privately afterwards.
After the day
You might leave with a leaflet, a Quran or the contact details of someone who can answer more questions. There's no follow-up pressure, but if you'd like to carry on, ask whether there are regular classes or visitor evenings. For the basics of visiting at other times, see Can I visit a mosque if I'm not Muslim? and What should I expect at my first mosque visit?
- Open days are free, friendly and made for visitors.
- Expect a tour, a short talk, a prayer demonstration, tea and questions.
- Dress modestly and take your shoes off.
- You are never expected to pray or convert.
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