June is the month we all dream of when we are in the depths of the dark days of Winter. It’s a month of warmth, celebration, festivals, and fun. Days seem to roll on endlessly until 10pm, the sun warms our bones, and we spend more time outside with our families. OK, the sun isn’t quite cooperating at the moment, but we’re told there are signs that this will change. As we discuss in this article, June is also a time to celebrate food and come together with those we love.
A month to come together and celebrate
As we write this article, we are in the middle of Eid Al Adha, which began on Friday 6th June 2025 and ends on 8th June 2025, when Muslims from around the world remember the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim and give their own sacrifice, Qurbani. Referred to as ‘the big Eid’, Eid al-Adha literally means the ‘festival of sacrifice’. This celebration is the climax of the Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam.
June is also the month when summer officially starts, kicking in on 21st June. In the Northern Hemisphere, 21st June marks the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year. The summer solstice occurs when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted most towards the sun. Interestingly, the summer solstice is timed to the exact minute – it occurs at 03.42 BST (02.42 GMT).
June is a time for celebration and feasting
At this time of year, celebrations and feasting go hand in hand. Eid al-Adha is also often referred to as the ‘salty’ Eid. This is because Muslims observing this event tend to eat more savoury dishes compared to Eid al-Fitr, when sweets are much more popular. Each country tends to have its own traditional dishes eaten at this time. In Egypt, Fattah is commonly eaten – layers of white rice, spiced lamb or beef, pitta chips, and a tangy garlic and tomato sauce. Whereas in the Levant region of Palestine, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan, maqlooba is incredibly popular at this time. Maqlooba, which means ‘upside down’, is made from layers of meat, rice, and vegetables.
At Riverside Foods, we have a selection of products that are perfect for family gatherings, events, celebrations, and BBQs this summer, including our:
- Homestyle Buttermilk Turkey Burger – check out our tasty Turkey & Apple Burger recipe!
- Homestyle Southern Fried mixed drums & wings and BBQ Wings
- Turkey meatballs – great in subs or finger food
- Smoked and Sliced Halal Turkey Rashers – see our recipe for a quick and satisfying American-Style Turkey Club Sandwich
- Sliced Turkey Ham and sliced turkey breast
Final words
As we head into summer, June reminds us of the importance of togetherness, tradition, and good food. Whether you’re marking Eid al-Adha with loved ones, enjoying the long evenings, or simply gathering around the barbecue, it’s a time to savour the small joys that come with warmth and connection. At Riverside Foods, we’re proud to support your celebrations with delicious, quality food options that bring everyone to the table. Here’s to a joyful and flavour-filled summer!
