Preston City Mela returns this July with a vibrant celebration of South Asian arts, music, food, and community spirit. Taking place in the beautiful surroundings of Avenham and Miller Parks on Saturday 12 July 2025, the Mela invites people from all walks of life to enjoy a colourful day of culture, heritage and unity in the heart of Lancashire.
Now in its 28th year, the Mela is one of the region’s most anticipated summer events. It proudly celebrates the contributions of Preston’s Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan communities, while embracing the broader diversity that makes the city such a special place. Organised in collaboration with local artists, youth groups and community leaders, the festival blends tradition with modern creativity.
Music and live performances
The main stage at Preston City Mela will offer a full day of entertainment, from classical music and folk traditions to contemporary urban sounds. Audiences can look forward to bhangra groups, Bollywood dance troupes, dhol drummers, and local singers and musicians performing everything from devotional songs to grime and fusion beats.
There will also be a more intimate performance space with acoustic and spiritual music, poetry readings and storytelling. This area will provide a quieter, reflective setting for visitors who wish to explore the emotional and artistic depth of South Asian culture.
Food, fashion and the festival market
Food is always a major highlight of the Mela. Visitors can explore stalls offering a mouthwatering variety of dishes—from fragrant biryanis and fresh dosas to sizzling kebabs, chaat, samosas and traditional sweets like jalebi and gulab jamun. Drinks like mango lassi, falooda and masala chai will also be available.
A dedicated street food area will feature younger chefs and pop-up vendors offering creative twists on traditional dishes, such as butter chicken sliders, vegan tikka wraps, and Bombay-spiced fries. With shaded seating areas and background music, the food court is the perfect place to take a break and soak in the atmosphere.
The Mela market will offer a colourful mix of South Asian crafts, clothing and gifts. Expect everything from embroidered saris and jewellery to handmade soaps, mehndi cones, children’s books, natural wellness products and home décor. It’s a great opportunity to support independent traders and discover unique items you won’t find on the high street.
These interactive experiences allow visitors to connect more deeply with South Asian traditions, while having fun in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
Celebrating community and heritage
At its heart, Preston City Mela is about celebrating community, identity and shared experience. Local charities and grassroots organisations will host stalls focused on themes such as mental health, education, social support, youth development and women’s empowerment.
A new feature for 2025 is the "Roots and Journeys" Heritage Hub, where visitors can explore stories of migration and resilience from Preston’s South Asian communities. Audio recordings, family photos, personal objects and community artwork will help trace how migration has shaped the city over the generations.
Accessibility and safety
The Mela is free and open to everyone. Avenham and Miller Parks are accessible to wheelchair users and pushchairs, with step-free routes, accessible toilets and designated viewing areas near performance stages. Quiet zones and sensory-friendly provisions will be available for visitors who prefer a calmer environment.
Security staff, medical teams and volunteers will be present throughout the park to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Don’t miss it
Whether you’re a regular visitor or attending for the first time, Preston City Mela 2025 promises a day filled with colour, connection, creativity and community pride. It’s a joyful celebration of South Asian heritage, and a reflection of the shared values that make Preston such a vibrant and inclusive city.
Bring your friends, your family and your curiosity—and enjoy a day to remember.
More information: www.visitlancashire.com