Cork to host inaugural Mela celebration of culture, community, and diversity

A new, free festival celebrating culture, community and diversity, which will run this May bank holiday weekend, has been launched by the Lord Mayor of Cork, councillor Fergal Dennehy.

The Cork Mela will take place on Sunday, May 3, in Fitzgerald Park, from 1pm to 5pm. A Mela is an Indian religious festival or fair, or a gathering of people.

Several local artists who will contribute to the Cork Mela attended the launch, among them Tania Zor from Anahvac Mexican Dance Ireland (AMDIE), Paulo Farinha from Capoeira Cork, Ciara Murray, Cork Community Centre, and 96FM’s Ken Perrott, who will host the festival’s World Stage.

Mr Dennehy said the festival promises to be “a wonderful celebration of the incredible cultural diversity that enriches our city”.

Powerful reminder

“It is a powerful reminder of how much we gain when we embrace traditions and talents from across the globe, bringing all of our communities together in a spirit of joy, unity, and mutual understanding,” he said.

“I encourage all our citizens to attend, enjoy the spectacular performances, and celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures that makes Cork such a wonderful place to live, work, and visit.”

Joining Mr Dennehy at the launch this week was Nisha Tandon, founder and CEO of ArtsEkta, festival organisers.

She said the Cork Mela would offer a new cultural festival for the city, inviting everyone to experience the sounds, tastes and stories of cultures from around the world.

“We have joined forces with more than 20 local groups representing many different cultures to produce an afternoon of exciting live performances, creative workshops and delicious global flavours,” she said.

“This first ever Cork Mela will celebrate the creativity, resilience and imagination of the many cultures and communities in Cork.”

The festival is supported by Rethink Ireland and Cork City Council.

The Cork Mela runs from 1pm to 5pm on Sunday, May 3, in Fitzgerald Park, and admission is free.

For further information about the festival, go to https://artsekta.org.uk/cork-mela.