A free festival returns to York this month.
The York Health and Arts Mela is back again at York Museum Gardens on Sunday 17 May.
The popular community festival, now in its third iteration, aims to celebrate York’s diversity while making health, wellbeing and arts information accessible in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
The day will feature a mix of music, dance, street food, culture, arts – and lots of community spirit.
The day will begin with a Community Bollywood Dance Keep Fit session designed to get people of all ages moving, followed by a varied programme of activities including Chat and Chorus, Teapot Yoga and Capoeira.
Live performances throughout the day will feature Ebor Morris Dancers, Richard Shephard’s School Choir, Miz Deeba and the East Asian Ensemble, alongside a range of other local artists and community groups. Free henna, face painting and arts and crafts will also be available for children.
Around 25 organisations from the NHS, wellbeing sector, and arts community will be on site offering information and advice about services available in York.
Attendees will be able to learn how to use the NHS App with NHS Digital representatives, receive blood pressure checks from Priory Pharmacy and local health champions, and speak directly to providers about health, wellbeing and cultural opportunities in the area.
A wide variety of food stalls will offer cuisine from around the world, including Indian, Afro-Caribbean and Afghan dishes, alongside traditional favourites such as fish and chips, pizzas and sweet treats.
The festival is organised by Shamim Eimaan, in partnership with York Museum Trust, Humber and North Yorkshire Care Partnership, Public Health England and Nimbuscare.
The York Health and Arts Mela is free to attend and open to all – to find out more and to see the full programme of events taking place, visit their website here.
