Victoria Park in Smethwick will host the annual Sandwell and Birmingham Mela this Sunday, a festival organisers describe as “the biggest South Asian music festival in Europe”. The event is expected to draw an audience of more than 50,000 people from across the UK and features over 150 music acts across eight activity zones.
“the biggest South Asian music festival in Europe”
Who is on stage
The headline act this year is Punjabi singer and lyricist Prem Dhillon, in what organisers say will be his only UK Mela appearance of 2026. The international roster also includes Sabba, Khushi Baliyan, Nirmal Sidhu, Oye Kunaal and Komal Chaudhary. Sandy and Mandy Sandhu, daughters of singer Kartar Ramla, are billed to perform an exclusive live set at the event.
Local performers listed for the main bill include OH Dhami, Pamma Lassaria, Jatin Lassaria, Bobby Sarver and RK Ramme, supported on stage by the Bhangra troupe The Jodi Dancers and The Live Experience Live Band.
What else to expect
Beyond the music, the Mela will offer a range of cultural and family activities. Visitors can watch visual, aerial and street theatre displays, browse a shopping bazaar and arts village, and try a variety of cuisines in a dedicated street food area. There will also be a funfair on site.
- More than 150 acts across performance stages
- Eight distinct activity zones for arts, food and family fun
- Street food covering regional and international cuisines
When and practical information
Gates open at 12:00 BST and the festival finishes at 20:00. Organisers have warned there is no re-admission, so visitors should ensure they have everything they need before entering. Attendees should also allow extra time for travel and local parking given the expected crowds.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Victoria Park, Smethwick |
| Date | Sunday (this weekend) |
| Opening hours | 12:00 – 20:00 BST |
| Expected attendance | More than 50,000 |
| Acts | 150+ across eight zones |
For local residents and visitors, the Mela is both a major cultural occasion and a logistical event for the Smethwick area. Those planning to attend should consider public transport where possible and check for any road closures or temporary parking restrictions around Victoria Park. The organisers’ guidance on tickets and entry should be consulted in advance: the festival operates on a no re‑admission policy.
The Sandwell and Birmingham Mela remains a significant celebration of South Asian culture in the West Midlands, combining headline acts, community performers and family attractions in a single day of performances and displays.
