What is Birmingham without its South Asian community? A lot less interesting. That’s what. And to celebrate this city’s exciting melting pot of cultures, the so-called ‘biggest South Asian music festival in Europe’, Sandwell & Birmingham Mela, returns to Smethwick’s Victoria Park this summer.
The one-day festival (July 26, 2026), established in 2011, brings the very best of music, dance, food, arts and crafts, and more from South Asian culture together. Thousands of attendees will watch hundreds of artists, as Birmingham Mela will stage some of the biggest desi names from the UK and abroad—and tickets start from only £3.
“Music, dance, food, arts and crafts bring the sights, sounds and spicy aromas of South Asia to Victoria Park, Smethwick,” said a spokesman for Sandwell & Birmingham Mela. “We stage some of the biggest names from the UK and overseas entertainment scene with home-grown talent from across the UK.”
What can I find at Sandwell & Birmingham Mela?
There are eight unique zones of activity to enjoy at Sandwell & Birmingham Mela, but obviously, the music is its biggest draw. So far, the lineup consists of Indian singer and film actress Sunanda Sharma, Bollywood playback singer Harshdeep Kaur, and the multi-talented Pakistani singer Yasir Hussain. But more will be announced.
Elsewhere, tuck into a vast array of world food cuisine from South Asian, British and Chinese traders in the Food Village. Enjoy hundreds of shops, from local businesses to international brands, selling everything from clothing to jewellery and beauty in the Shopping Bazaar. And don’t forget to have a go on the Funfair!
Want to get away from the crowds? We haven’t even begun to talk about the huge range of art and crafts workshops, street theatre, dance classes, live cooking demonstrations, and rising musical stars, you will find dotted throughout the Birmingham Mela. Overall, expect more than 150 artists, 100 stalls and 30 food outlets.
How do I get to Birmingham Mela?
Located in Victoria Park in Smethwick, between Sandwell and Birmingham, the best way to get there is by public transport. Expect temporary road closures on the day in the area, with limited parking in and around Victoria Park. The closest rail station is Smethwick Rolfe Street, which is 15 minutes from Victoria Park, while the number 82 bus from Birmingham to Bearwood stops on the High Street right next to it.
How much are tickets?
While tickets aren’t on sale yet, last year, they started from £3, while you could grab a family ticket for just £12 or a VIP ticket (which offered a chance to meet the artists, side of stage viewing, access to Mela VIP Village and more) from £38.99. You can learn more here.