Thousands braved the rain to make the Middlesbrough Mela a weekend to remember.
And organisers have pledged to make next year’s event even bigger and better than ever when it returns to Albert Park for a 35th edition.
The Middlesbrough Mela is renowned as one of the UK’s longest running and best loved celebrations of culture, music and diversity.
This year’s event was postponed following last month’s town centre disturbances, but the delayed programme of live performances, entertainment and mouth-watering food did not disappoint.
Sunday headliners Rameet Sandhu, Sahara UK and Roach Killa drew in the crowds, while the legendary International Bazaar featured an irresistible array of stalls selling everything from clothes to delicious street food.
Mela Executive Director Kash Patel said: “Last weekend’s 34th Middlesbrough Mela – undeterred by a little inclement weather – demonstrated that Middlesbrough is a truly resilient town, whose strength lies in its diversity.
“The Middlesbrough Mela is one of the UK’s most vibrant celebrations of culture and diversity – it’s a powerful symbol of hope, and of the strength and unity we see across our communities.
“Every year this joyous event brings people together in peace and harmony, overcoming division through shared joy, heritage and cultural exchange, and long may that continue.
“Events like the Mela simply wouldn’t be possible without the passion, dedication, and commitment of the incredible team working tirelessly behind the scenes, and I extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation to these local heroes.”
Guest speakers at the event included Mayor Chris Cooke who added: “The Middlesbrough Mela is the longest running event of its kind in the UK, and those foundations will ensure it survives and thrives for many years to come.
“It’s set a fantastic blueprint for others to follow as an unstoppable force for good, and I know we’re all looking forward to it coming back next year bigger and better than ever.”
Main sponsors for this year’s Middlesbrough Mela are Everyone Active, Teesside University and Unison, while Mela and other cultural events in Middlesbrough are supported by the Cultural Ambassadors scheme.
Ambassadors including Holiday Inn Express, Leonardo Hotel, Teesside University and Stagecoach North East donated £5,000 each towards a £20,000 pot to support the Mela, Taste Of Africa, Middlesbrough Art Week and Middlesbrough Pride.
- Details of the 2025 Middlesbrough Mela will be announced in due course.
Anyone who would like to get involved in next year’s event can email Kash Patel at info@middlesbroughmela.co.uk
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