One of the highlights of the region's cultural calendar is taking place this weekend and it's completely free.

The Middlesbrough Mela is renowned as one of the UK’s most vibrant celebrations of culture, music and diversity, attracting visitors in their tens of thousands every year. Mela will be marking its 35th anniversary when it returns to the town’s Albert Park over the weekend of Saturday, August 16 and Sunday, August 17.

The multicultural event has developed a reputation for an unrivalled mix of live performance, entertainment and mouth-watering food showcasing cuisines from across the globe. Organisers have said this year’s event will be the best yet, featuring a mix of high-profile South Asian artists, home-grown talent, dance acts and family favourites.

Topping Saturday’s

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