Multicultural Festival To Hit Botanic Gardens

A multi-cultural feast of music, dance, food, fashion, street theatre and carnival is set to attract thousands to Belfast this summer as the City gears up for the sixth annual Belfast Mela.

Taking place on Sunday 26 August in Belfast's Botanic Gardens from 12-6pm, the one-day, flagship arts event features seven zones including a world food market and global souk, and four stages showcasing over 20 top class international and home grown acts from the world of music, dance and visual arts.

Headlining the world stage are iconic British Bhangra band DCS supported by Congolese musician, singer songwriter Niwel Tsumbu with his spectacular live band. While festival favourite the Jaipur Kawa Brass Band accompanied by the acclaimed dancer Sapera Kalbelyamake a welcome return this year.

New to this year's event is The Maharaja Tent where would be festival goers will be treated to a host of classical arts performances and sensory exhibition in an intimate, opulent surrounding away from the hustle and bustle of the Mela.

Visitors can sample Thai, Polish, Spanish and Indian cuisine at the world food market, discover local artistic talent at the community showcase area, enjoy street arts shows and even participate in traditional South Asian sports at the Health and Sports zone. Returning once again is the increasingly popular 'Culture Land', which is an interactive arts learning experience for young people where they are taken on a literal journey around the world.

With a variety of treats in every corner of Botanic Gardens, the Belfast Mela is one fantastic cultural experience you will not want to miss this summer!

For more information visit www.belfastmela.org.uk or telephone 028 90231 381. Admission £3 for adults/£2 for children under 12. No advance booking necessary.