Stage set for a Mega Mela

THOUSANDS of people are expected to descend on Alexandra Park for one of Oldham’s biggest annual events.

The Mega Mela will be held in Alexandra Park on Sunday, July 12, from 12-8pm, and will feature performances from a host of international stars as well as food, games and information stands.

Mela, which originates from South Asia, literally means “to meet” and historically provided an opportunity for families and communities to come together to celebrate religious, cultural or artistic events.

Today Melas are still an integral part of life in South Asia but the concept has developed and evolved a whole new meaning in the UK.

A Mela meaning “festival” now describes a outdoor summer event with an emphasis on cultural and artistic programme with a mix of music, food, and information as well as all the fun of the fair.

The Oldham Mela offers extensive activities targeting the whole family and the event brings together the diverse ethnic communities from Oldham.