ACAA Announces Afghan Summer Festival (MELA) 2026, UK’s Biggest Refugee Week Festival Returns to West London
The World’s Largest Afghan Music Festival Expected to Welcome Over 10,000 Visitors
The Afghanistan and Central Asian Association (ACAA), an award-winning UK-based refugee charity headquartered in London and the largest charity supporting Afghan and Central Asian communities in the United Kingdom, is delighted to announce the return of the Afghan Summer Festival (MELA) 2026, taking place on Sunday 21 June 2026, from 10:00am to 8:00pm at Cranford Community College, High Street, Hounslow, TW5 9PD.
Nearest Underground Station: Hounslow West
Nearest National Rail Station: Southall
Recognised as the UK’s Biggest Refugee Week Festival and the World’s Largest Afghan Music Festival, the Afghan Summer Festival is one of the most significant celebrations of Afghan culture, heritage, music and community anywhere in Europe.
Following the outstanding success of the 2025 festival, which welcomed more than 7,500 attendees, organisers expect over 10,000 visitors in 2026 from across London, the UK and across Europe.
Held as part of the annual Refugee Week celebrations, the festival brings together Afghan, Central Asian, Persian, South Asian and wider communities for a day of cultural exchange, entertainment, community engagement and celebration.
Festival Highlights
Visitors can enjoy a full day of entertainment and activities, including:
Live Entertainment
Live Afghan DJs
Live Afghan, Persian and Central Asian singers and dance groups
Traditional folk music performances featuring Rubab, Tabla, Santur and Daf players
Professional photography and videography
Large outdoor festival stage with performances throughout the day
Family Attractions
Exclusive Kids Zone
Bouncy Castles
Funfair rides
Face painting
Henna art
Storytelling stalls
Circus performances
Fun games and entertainment for children
360° Photo Booth experience
Food and Drink
The festival will feature a wide range of paid food and drink stalls offering:
Afghan cuisine
Central Asian cuisine
Persian cuisine
South Asian cuisine
Traditional sweets and desserts
Additional attractions include:
Ice cream vendors
Chocolate fountain stalls
Bubble Tea stalls
Ice Gola stalls
Cash and contactless payment bar
Shopping Bazaar
With more than 30 stalls, visitors can browse:
Afghan and international fashion
Jewellery
Arts and crafts
Carpets and textiles
Embroidery
Calligraphy
Henna artists
Community organisations
Small businesses and entrepreneurs
Cultural Heritage Exhibitions
The festival will also feature:
Photo displays documenting refugee journeys
Exhibitions showcasing Afghan and Central Asian history and heritage
Community storytelling projects
Educational and cultural awareness displays
