Arts Ekta

Arts Ekta We're an award winning social enterprise bringing the world to your doorstep. Home to Belfast Mela.

The brainchild of Indian-native Nisha Tandon, ArtsEkta was founded in 2006 on the principles of inclusivity, creativity and openness in all aspects of society – Ekta means ‘uniting’ in the Indian language. Bringing together communities of Belfast and beyond, we create projects that inspire audiences to engage with the diversity, tastes, rhythms and sights that make up the multicultural life of Nor

thern Ireland. Over the last decade we have grown dramatically in size and scope and are now recognised as one of the region’s leading arts charities and a pioneer in the development of intercultural arts for Northern Ireland.

❤️ Belfast… thank you.We’re still trying to find the words.Yesterday, Botanic Gardens became a world within our city — f...
31/08/2026

❤️ Belfast… thank you.

We’re still trying to find the words.

Yesterday, Botanic Gardens became a world within our city — filled with music, colour, laughter, incredible food and, most importantly, people coming together. 🌍

After 20 years of Belfast Mela, seeing thousands of you celebrating side by side was incredibly emotional. Families who have been with us for years, children experiencing their first Mela, artists sharing traditions across generations and communities proudly celebrating their cultures.

This is why Mela exists.

For 20 years, we’ve believed that culture has the power to connect us and that our diversity is something to celebrate. Yesterday, you proved that all over again. ❤️

To every artist, performer, community group, trader, volunteer, crew member, partner, funder and supporter — thank you.

And to everyone who joined us…

You are Mela. You brought the joy, the energy and the magic.

Belfast, from the bottom of our hearts — thank you. Here’s to the next 20. 🌍❤️

Belfast City Council | Visit Belfast | Discover Northern Ireland | Arts Council of Northern Ireland

📷 Carrie Davenport Photography

28/08/2026

💙 Everyone is welcome at Belfast Mela.

We believe festivals are for everyone, which is why we're committed to making Mela Day as welcoming, inclusive and accessible as possible.

Whether you need mobility support, a quiet space to recharge, sensory-friendly facilities or accessibility assistance, we're here to help you enjoy the festival with confidence. 🌍❤️

Here's some of the support available:

♿ 2-for-1 tickets for eligible Blue Badge holders requiring a companion
🚗 Blue Badge parking
🚻 Accessible toilets
🌿 Quiet & relaxed spaces
🧩 Sensory support and neuroaffirming wellbeing spaces
👶 Baby changing & feeding facilities
🐕 Assistance dogs welcome
♿ Wheelchair-accessible marquees and ramps

If you have any questions or specific access requirements, our team is always happy to help.

Find out more about accessibility and plan your visit: belfastmela.org.uk
Because everyone deserves to experience the magic of Mela. 💙

Mela Day is almost here! 🎉Before you head to Botanic Gardens, here's everything you need to know for an unforgettable da...
28/08/2026

Mela Day is almost here! 🎉

Before you head to Botanic Gardens, here's everything you need to know for an unforgettable day celebrating our big festival finale

🎟️ TICKETS
Book online in advance to guarantee entry and save time at the gate. Have your ticket ready on your phone (or printed) for quick admission. Tickets will also be available on the gate, subject to availability.

🚪 ENTRY
Please use one of our official festival entrances: Stranmillis Road Gate (beside Queen's University & Ulster Museum) or Botanic Avenue Gate (beside Queen's McClay Library). Arrive early to avoid queues and make the most of your day!

🚌 TRAVEL
Leave the car at home if you can! We recommend travelling by bus or train with our friends at Translink.. Walking and cycling are also great options. Blue Badge parking is available on a first come, first served basis at Queen's Library Car Park (College Park East).

♿ ACCESSIBILITY
Everyone is welcome at Belfast Mela. You'll find companion tickets available, accessible parking, accessible toilets, wheelchair-accessible routes and marquees, quiet & sensory spaces and assistance dogs are welcome

🍼 FAMILIES
Baby changing and feeding facilities are available. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

🍜 COME HUNGRY
With over 30 international food vendors, you'll want to leave plenty of room to explore!

💳 PAYMENTS
Most traders accept card payments, but bringing a little cash is always handy.

💧 STAY HYDRATED
Bring a reusable water bottle – we have water refilling stations on site.

🐶 DOGS
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Please keep them away from food areas and remember to clean up after them.

🚫 ALCOHOL-FREE FESTIVAL
Belfast Mela is a family-friendly, alcohol-free event. Alcohol is not permitted on site.

🌦️ COME RAIN OR SHINE
Mela is an outdoor festival! Pack for the weather, wear comfy shoes and get ready to explore the world in one park.

📍 Botanic Gardens
📅 Sunday 30 August
🕛 12pm–6pm

Full event info from belfastmela.org.uk

Visit Belfast | Discover Northern Ireland | Arts Council of Northern Ireland | Belfast City Council

ID: Belfast Mela Day information graphic with the heading "Important Information" for 30 August 2026.

🎉 End Mela Day on a High!After a day of music, dance, food and culture from around the world, join us for the Festival F...
27/08/2026

🎉 End Mela Day on a High!

After a day of music, dance, food and culture from around the world, join us for the Festival Finale – a spectacular celebration to close Belfast Mela's 20th anniversary.

Experience an electrifying performance from the South Asian Dance Academy and Bhangra Smash Up. Expect soaring melodies, infectious energy and a festival atmosphere that will have everyone on their feet.

Let's celebrate 20 years of bringing people together through culture, creativity and community – and send Mela 2026 out in style!

🕠 4.45pm - 6.00pm
📍 World Stage, Botanic Gardens
📅 Sunday 30 August

Don't leave early… you won't want to miss the grand finale.

Visit Belfast | Discover Northern Ireland | Belfast City Council | Arts Council of Northern Ireland

ID: Belfast Mela Festival Finale graphic featuring a live stage and celebrating crowd. Mela Day, 30 August 2026, Botanic Gardens.

🌿 Take a moment... this is your space to pause and find your place to be.Festival days are full of excitement, but somet...
27/08/2026

🌿 Take a moment... this is your space to pause and find your place to be.

Festival days are full of excitement, but sometimes the best thing you can do is slow down.

Welcome to the World of Wellbeing – a peaceful oasis where you can relax, recharge and reconnect with a line up curated by Tessa UnLtd Soundoracle

✨ Stretch out with yoga
🧘 Experience mindfulness and meditation
🎵 Unwind with sound healing
💆 Listen to wellbeing talks curated by HappyFest
🌸 Enjoy calming sensory experiences
💚 Find quiet spaces to rest and reflect

Designed to be welcoming, inclusive and accessible for everyone, the World of Wellbeing is a place to nurture your mind, body and soul at your own pace. Whether you need a moment of calm, a chance to reset or simply somewhere to breathe, you'll find it here.

📅 Sunday 30 August
📍 Botanic Gardens
🎟️ Tickets on sale now at belfastmela.org.uk

Take a deep breath... we'll see you there. 💚

Visit Belfast | Belfast City Council | Discover Northern Ireland | Public Health Agency

ID: Belfast Mela World of Wellbeing promotional graphic featuring a person taking part in an outdoor wellbeing activity. Mela Day, 30 August 2026, Botanic Gardens.

🧚✨ Pssst... did you know there's a secret gateway to the Otherworld hidden in Botanic Gardens?Follow Sli na Si and step ...
26/08/2026

🧚✨ Pssst... did you know there's a secret gateway to the Otherworld hidden in Botanic Gardens?

Follow Sli na Si and step into a magical adventure inspired by the myths and legends of Ireland.

Your quest begins as little explorers collect special offerings along the trail. Leave them beneath the Fairy Tree and, if the fairies approve... the gateway to the Otherworld will open! 🌳✨

Perfect for curious little adventurers (and grown-ups who still believe in magic!).

📅 Sunday 30 August
📍 Botanic Gardens
🎟️ Tickets on sale now at belfastmela.org.uk

Do you believe in fairies? 🍃🧚

Visit Belfast | Belfast City Council | Arts Council of Northern Ireland | Discover Northern Ireland

ID: Belfast Mela Fairy Trail promotional graphic featuring children interacting with a costumed character. Mela Day, 30 August 2026, Botanic Gardens.

🌙 World of Words: The Moon Belongs to EveryoneLook up… we all share the same moon. ✨Step into the magical World of Words...
26/08/2026

🌙 World of Words: The Moon Belongs to Everyone

Look up… we all share the same moon. ✨

Step into the magical World of Words, where storytellers Masako Carey, Sam Porcellio, Vicki McFarland and Orla McKeating, take families on a journey through moonlit tales inspired by cultures and traditions from around the world.

Discover enchanting stories of moon gods and goddesses, mysterious creatures, faraway lands and night-time adventures, all connected by one simple idea — the moon belongs to everyone.

A beautiful collection of stories celebrating imagination, belonging and the things that connect us, wherever in the world we call home.

🌙 Stories from around the world
✨ Magic, myths & imagination
🌍 One moon. Many cultures. Stories for everyone.

📅 Sunday 30 August
📍 Botanic Gardens
🎟️ Tickets on sale now at belfastmela.org.uk

Visit Belfast | Belfast City Council | Arts Council of Northern Ireland | Discover Northern Ireland

ID: Belfast Mela World of Words promotional graphic featuring a storyteller speaking to an audience. Mela Day, 30 August 2026, Botanic Gardens.

🔥 What a night in Seoul! 🇰🇷Last night was all about fire, flavour and gathering around the table as our Silk Road Supper...
26/08/2026

🔥 What a night in Seoul! 🇰🇷

Last night was all about fire, flavour and gathering around the table as our Silk Road Supper Club journeyed to South Korea in partnership with Gogi Belfast at Banana Block as part of

From sizzling Korean BBQ and building the perfect ssam, to traditional Asian dance, a little friendly Gonggi competition and plenty of sharing around the table — the room was full of energy! 🥢✨

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us, our brilliant chefs and performers, and everyone who helped bring A Night in Seoul to life.

And we hope you’re enjoying your Bulgogi Sauce gift at home! 👀🔥

Until the next journey… 🌍

Visit Belfast | Discover Northern Ireland | Belfast City Council

📸 Lost Lens Caps

Think you've got what it takes?Welcome to Feast of Fire – Mela Day's hottest event hosted by our hot sauce friends Black...
25/08/2026

Think you've got what it takes?

Welcome to Feast of Fire – Mela Day's hottest event hosted by our hot sauce friends BlackFire Hot Sauces

Step up for our legendary Chilli Eating Competition and put your taste buds (and your bravery!) to the ultimate test.

Round by round, the chillies get hotter...
The competition gets tougher...
And the reactions get even more unforgettable! 🌶️🥵🔥

Will you be crowned this year's chilli champion... or will you be reaching for the milk? 🥛😂

Not brave enough to compete? No problem! Grab a front-row spot and cheer on the fearless contestants as they battle the heat in one of Mela Day's funniest and most talked-about events.

Do you dare to feel the heat?

📅 Sunday 30 August
📍 Botanic Gardens
🎟️ Tickets on sale now at belfastmela.org.uk

Visit Belfast | Discover Northern Ireland | Arts Council of Northern Ireland | Belfast City Council

ID: Belfast Mela Feast of Fire promotional graphic featuring a participant tasting spicy food. Mela Day, 30 August 2026, Botanic Gardens

👨‍🍳 Ever wondered what makes a dish truly authentic?Welcome to Taste the World at – where every recipe has a story.Joi...
25/08/2026

👨‍🍳 Ever wondered what makes a dish truly authentic?

Welcome to Taste the World at – where every recipe has a story.

Join chefs and food experts as they share the flavours, traditions and techniques behind some of the world's most loved dishes through live cooking demonstrations, tastings and inspiring food stories.

🌶️ Discover new ingredients.
🥘 Learn about Northern Ireland produce
🍴 Pick up tips from the experts.
🌍 Travel the world, one bite at a time.

Whether you're a passionate foodie, an adventurous cook or simply love trying something new, Taste the World is the perfect place to gather, taste and be inspired.

Featuring demonstrations from DarMisk Grill, Stereo Cafe, General Merchants and Nomad17

📅 Sunday 30 August
📍 Botanic Gardens
🎟️ Tickets on sale now at belfastmela.org.uk

Belfast City Council | Arts Council of Northern Ireland | Visit Belfast | Discover Northern Ireland

ID: Belfast Mela Taste the World promotional graphic featuring a chef preparing food. Mela Day, 30 August 2026, Botanic Gardens.

Address

23 Fountain Street
Belfast
BT15EA

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+442890231381

Website

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