As Hyde St residents and friends revelled in costumed, resplendent glory, one street away a more subdued gathering was taking place.
The Al Huda Mosque, in Clyde St, held its open day during the height of the Hyde St party.
But far from being an inconvenience, it was barely noticeable, Otago Muslims Association chairman Steve Johnston said.
"Once you were in here you wouldn't even know it was on,'' he said.
"Even when I was outside it was quieter than previous years.''
No students had gatecrashed the event and they had kept to themselves, he said.
Otago Muslims Association refugees support committee co-ordinator Najib Lafraie said about 200 people had attended the open day, held to engage the community before the first Syrian refugees arrive in the city.
"The feedback was very positive,'' Mr Johnston said.
