Festivals / diaspora
DIASPORA! will return for 2026 with a 10-day celebration of cultural diversity through the arts
Conceived and organised by the Bristol community interest company Diverse Artists Network (DAN), DIASPORA! first came to the city in 2024, with a pilot iteration.
The success of that inaugural event has led to a significant expansion for the 2026 edition, which will be a 10-day celebration of cultural diversity through the arts, beginning on May 1.
This not-for-profit festival will span the South West, championing the breadth of creative talent within diverse, international communities across the region.
The DIASPORA! festival in Bristol. Pan-African day of workshops and performances at Trinity Centre, May 2024
With the full programme to be announced in the spring, it is expected to contain film, theatre, dance, spoken word, visual art, music, and a mix of indoor, outdoor and online events – from talks and workshops to screenings and community gatherings.
Vandna Mehta is the artistic director of DAN and DIASPORA!, and is excited for what the 2026 event might bring. “The inaugural festival in 2024 was such a success for the city and region, and also helped us to grow as an organisation”, she comments.
DIASPORA closing ceremony flag display, May 6th 2024
“We’re really looking forward to having even more impact this time around, and working in close collaboration with our amazing artists, partners and communities.
“We couldn’t run DIASPORA! without the support of the city, especially in the funding landscape we are in, where things are so uncertain for the arts.
Ferry choir performance in Bristol harbour, DIASPORA!, May 2024
“By working together and sharing our resources, we know we can and will create something amazing and accessible for all.
“I’m really proud of what our team has achieved and look forward to an even bigger celebration in 2026.”
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DIASPORA! takes place across Bristol from May 1-10, with a full programme announcement expected in the spring. Follow @diverseartistsnetwork for updates.
All photos: Freia Turland
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