“Music, dance, food, arts and crafts bring the sights"
The Sandwell and Birmingham Mela will return in summer 2026, with organisers promising a major celebration of South Asian culture in the West Midlands.
The one-day event will take place on July 26, 2026, at Victoria Park.
First established in 2011, the festival has grown into one of the UK’s largest South Asian cultural gatherings, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
Billed by organisers as the “biggest South Asian music festival in Europe”, the mela will feature a mix of live performances, food, shopping and community-led activities.
Tickets start from £3, reflecting efforts to keep the event widely accessible despite its scale.
A spokesperson said: “Music, dance, food, arts and crafts bring the sights, sounds and spicy aromas of South Asia to Victoria Park, Smethwick.
“We stage some of the biggest names from the UK and overseas entertainment scene with home-grown talent from across the UK.”
Music remains the central focus, with more than 150 artists expected to perform across multiple stages.
Some of the announced acts include Sunanda Sharma, Harshdeep Kaur and Yasir Hussain. Further announcements will be made in due course.
Organisers have also confirmed eight activity zones across the site.
These will include a Food Village offering South Asian, British and Chinese cuisine, alongside a Shopping Bazaar featuring clothing, jewellery and beauty products from local traders and international brands.
Away from the main stages, the event will host art and craft workshops, street theatre, dance classes and live cooking demonstrations.
A funfair will also operate throughout the day, while emerging artists will be given space to perform.
In total, visitors can expect around 100 stalls and 30 food outlets, underlining the event’s scale and its role in showcasing both commercial and grassroots South Asian culture.
The festival takes place at Victoria Park in Smethwick, with organisers advising attendees to plan their travel in advance.
Temporary road closures are expected, and parking near Victoria Park will be limited.
Public transport is likely to be the most practical option.
The nearest station is Smethwick Rolfe Street railway station, around a 15-minute walk from the park. The number 82 bus from Birmingham to Bearwood also stops on the High Street nearby.
With a growing lineup and expanded programme, the Sandwell and Birmingham Mela is expected to once again attract large crowds, reinforcing its position as a key date in the UK’s South Asian cultural calendar.
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