Free week-long celebration of culture

Highlights of this year’s Mela at Home, sponsored by Sensata Technologies, include a wonderful line up of music, dance, food, art, theatre, discussion and wellbeing from around the world presented by local artists and performers living in Northern Ireland. An engaging and interactive Mela at Home festival map transports visitors to a virtual Botanic Gardens with a range of new exciting events on offer each day including spectacular performances on the World Stage, a variety of cookery demonstrations in the Palm House, relaxation workshops in the World of Wellbeing, plus interactive theatre, animation, storytelling and much more for children.

Nisha Tandon, OBE, Founder of Belfast Mela and Director of ArtsEkta said: “We really hope our virtual festival brings people some joy, positivity and hope in these very strange times.

“Recent events have also created momentum in communities in every corner of the globe with equality and rights firmly under the spotlight.

“Our vision is a society that respects different cultures and communities in Northern Ireland. We will continue to play our part in challenging racism and prejudice by using arts and creativity to help us all embrace our differences and celebrate our similarities.

“We encourage you to log onto our new website www.belfastmela.org.uk to pick your favourite events, many of which are interactive and created with every member of the family in mind.

“And of course, we’d love you to support the festival by purchasing a limited edition Mela Culture Box to create your very own pop up Mini Mela at home.”

Mela at Home starts on Monday August 24 at www.belfastmela.org.uk and runs until Sunday August 30 with a variety of events lined up each day. All events are free of charge.

Follow all the fun on ArtsEkta’s social media: Facebook – facebook.com/artsekta1 and Instagram and Twitter @artsekta