Thousands of people packed into Belfast’s Botanic Gardens on Sunday for a day of music, dance and food as the Mela Festival marked its 20th anniversary.
The festival’s finale, brought together artists, performers and community groups from across Northern Ireland and around the world, with a programme taking in cultural performances, theatre, family activities and food stalls.
Belfast’s annual Mela Day celebrates its 20th anniversary at Botanic Gardens. PICTURE: BRIAN LINCOLN
Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly joined Nisha Tandon OBE, founder of Belfast Mela and chief executive of ArtsEkta, to mark the anniversary, alongside Junior Minister Joanne Bunting MLA and hundreds of artists and participants.
Belfast’s annual Mela Day celebrates its 20th anniversary at Botanic Gardens. PICTURE: BRIAN LINCOLN
Ms Tandon said: “Twenty years of Belfast Mela is an extraordinary milestone, and I feel incredibly proud and grateful as we celebrate this special anniversary with our Mela family today.
Belfast’s annual Mela Day celebrates its 20th anniversary at Botanic Gardens. PICTURE: BRIAN LINCOLN
“Mela has grown into a much-loved celebration for Belfast and beyond, bringing together artists, communities and audiences from across the world. This 20th anniversary festival has been a wonderful reminder of the power of culture to connect us, inspire us and create a sense of belonging.
Belfast’s annual Mela Day celebrates its 20th anniversary at Botanic Gardens. PICTURE: BRIAN LINCOLN
“I want to thank every artist, performer, community group, volunteer, partner and audience member who has been part of the Mela journey over the past 20 years. Most importantly, thank you to the people of Belfast and beyond who continue to embrace Mela and make it their own. Here’s to the next chapter of Mela.”