Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has confirmed Tourism NI funding for the Belfast Mela as the multicultural celebration marks its 20th year.

Running from 22–30 August, the programme will fill Belfast with music, dance, food and art, keeping the celebratory momentum going following the successful staging of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

Belfast Mela is one of 14 events to receive backing from Tourism NI's International Tourism Events Fund, with £30,000 awarded this year.

The event is projected to generate just over £1.5 million for the local economy.

Dr Archibald said: "This vibrant celebration is a real asset to the city of Belfast. It will once again be supported this year with funding from Tourism NI as the festival celebrates its 20th anniversary and showcases our cultural diversity.

"The Belfast Mela has become one of the north's flagship cultural events but it is so much more than a festival. It is a catalyst for understanding, bringing people together, helping us see the world through each other's eyes and creating a sense of belonging for everyone who calls this place home. "Just days after the successful delivery of Fleadh Cheoil 2026, Belfast Mela will draw both domestic and international visitors, generating economic benefits for local businesses and creating memorable experiences for everyone."

Around 65,000 people are expected to attend this year, with about 15% travelling from outside Northern Ireland. The festival is also forecast to deliver nearly 2,700 bed nights.

Nisha Tandon, Founder of Belfast Mela and CEO of ArtsEkta, said: "Celebrating 20 years of Belfast Mela is an incredibly special milestone for everyone at ArtsEkta.

"We're delighted that Tourism NI is continuing to support Mela in 2026, helping us welcome even more visitors from across the island of Ireland and beyond to experience the warmth, creativity and diversity that make modern Northern Ireland so special.

"This year, we're planning to throw the biggest birthday party Belfast has ever seen and everyone is invited."

Siobhan McGuigan, Head of Events at Tourism NI, said: "Belfast Mela showcases and celebrates our diversity to our visitors, and strengthens Northern Ireland's reputation as a vibrant, inclusive place to live, work, study and visit.

"We applaud the ambitious evolution of this event across the years which strongly aligns with our goal of supporting experiences that have the potential to attract international visitors and enhance the region's reputation on the competitive global tourism stage."