The wait is almost over – Middlesbrough Mela 2024 is now just days away.
Excitement is mounting ahead of one of the UK’s longest running and best loved celebrations of culture, music and diversity.
Crowds in their tens of thousands will flock to Middlesbrough’s Albert Park from across the region and beyond for the event which celebrates its 34th year over the weekend of Saturday, September 7 and Sunday, September 8.
Gates open at noon on both days, with a packed programme of entertainment running until 6pm on Saturday, and 7pm on Sunday. Admission is free.
The multicultural showcase is renowned for its unrivalled mix of live performance, entertainment and mouth-watering food showcasing cuisines from across the globe.
Visitors can look forward to a feast of live music, from Hussain Brothers Qawwali on Saturday to Sunday headliners Rameet Sandhu, Sahara UK and Roach Killa.
The legendary International Bazaar will feature a dizzying array of stalls selling everything from clothes to mouth-watering street food, and there will be activities for all ages from arts and crafts and dance workshops to inflatables and a funfair.
Mela Executive Director Kash Patel said: “The Middlesbrough Mela is renowned for bringing some of the very best acts from around the globe to Albert Park, and this year’s line-up is no exception.
“The support for the event has been overwhelming, and we’ve worked closely with a whole range of partners and safety organisations to ensure everyone has the best possible time.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone for what will be a truly unforgettable weekend.”
Main sponsors for the 2024 Middlesbrough Mela are Everyone Active, Teesside University and Unison.
Guest speakers at the event will include Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke, Middlesbrough and Thornaby East MP Andy McDonald and Cleveland Police & Crime Commissioner Matt Storey.
Middlesbrough and Thornaby East MP Andy McDonald said: “The Middlesbrough Mela is a cultural cornerstone in the calendar for Teesside and the entire north east.
“Middlesbrough is a town built on immigration and this annual celebration allows us all to share in many important aspects of our diversity.
“It is a bright positive event that has always been so well organised and supported for more than 30 years and I hope everyone can enjoy the wonderful entertainment, the fabulous food and all the positivity the weekend brings.”
Cleveland Police & Crime Commissioner Matt Storey said: “Myself and my staff are looking forward to attending this year’s Mela.
“It’s a great chance to meet people and talk about what they want to see happening in their area in future.
“Fingers crossed the weather will remain fair and as many people as possible from all of Cleveland’s communities will come out and have a great day!”
The 2024 Middlesbrough Mela takes place on Saturday, September 7, and Sunday, September 8 in the town’s Albert Park.
The event is free for all to attend and tickets are not required. Free parking is available on Clairville Common, and main stage viewing platforms will be available for wheelchair users.
For more information and to stay up to date with the latest news and announcements visit the Mela website or follow the Facebook page.