Get ready for a vibrant, family-friendly celebration of culture, music, and community spirit! On Sunday 26 July 2026, the Asian Welfare and Cultural Association (AWCA) presents the annual Eastleigh Mela at Leigh Road Recreation Ground (SO50 9DE). Running from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, this popular community festival brings together exciting live performances, global cuisine, shopping stalls, and creative activities for all ages.
Event Schedule & Timings
The Eastleigh Mela takes place on Sunday 26 July 2026 at Leigh Road Recreation Ground in Eastleigh:
- 11:00 AM: Gates open, market stalls and global food court open.
- 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM: Live stage performances, cultural dances, and family activities throughout the afternoon.
- 5:00 PM: Event finishes.
Lineup & Festival Highlights
Organised by the Asian Welfare and Cultural Association (AWCA), the festival features an exciting stage lineup hosted by compere and TV personality Raj Ghai:
- Bali Brahmbhatt: Iconic Bollywood legend delivering classic hits and high-energy music.
- Rory Jackson: World-renowned Michael Jackson tribute act as seen on Britain’s Got Talent.
- Mike Nova: Top-tier Elvis Presley tribute artist.
- Paresh & Rekha: Acclaimed vocalists of Sa Re Ga Ma and Indian Idol fame.
- Keith Simon: Energetic Bob Marley tribute performance.
- Cultural Acts & Local Bands: Performances by Chinese Association Southampton, Prince, and Kenwood and the Mixers.
- Family Activities: Face painting, live portrait artists, children’s entertainers, street performers, and diverse community trading stalls.
Ticket Prices & Booking Information
The Eastleigh Mela is a free community event:
- Admission: FREE ENTRY (no tickets required; simply turn up with family and friends).
- Organiser: Presented by the Asian Welfare and Cultural Association (AWCA Eastleigh).
How to Get to Leigh Road Recreation Ground
Leigh Road Recreation Ground is located in the heart of Eastleigh town centre:
- By Car: Accessible via the M3 (Junction 13) or M27 (Junction 5). Direct your satnav to SO50 9DE.
- By Train: Eastleigh Railway Station is less than a 5-minute walk away (approx. 0.2 miles) with direct links from Southampton Central and Winchester.
- By Bus: Bluestar and local bus routes stop along Leigh Road and Eastleigh Bus Station, both adjacent to the park.
Where to Park near Leigh Road Recreation Ground
Convenient car parks are situated within short walking distance of the park grounds:
- Swan Centre Car Park: Multi-storey car park located opposite the park (postcode SO50 5SF).
- Mitchell Road Multi-Storey Car Park: Located just a 3-minute walk from the recreation ground.
- Leigh Road Surface Car Park: Pay-and-display parking located directly adjacent to the park.
Discover More Local Events
Looking for more exciting things to do across the city? Check out our complete list of What’s On in Southampton to discover the latest festivals, live music, theatre shows, and community events happening near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When and where is the Eastleigh Mela 2026 taking place?
- Eastleigh Mela takes place on Sunday 26 July 2026 at Leigh Road Recreation Ground, Eastleigh (SO50 9DE), running from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- How much is entry to the Eastleigh Mela?
- The festival is completely FREE entry for everyone! No tickets are required in advance.
- Who is performing at Eastleigh Mela 2026?
- The stage lineup includes Bollywood legend Bali Brahmbhatt, BGT semi-finalist Rory Jackson (Michael Jackson tribute), Mike Nova (Elvis tribute), Keith Simon (Bob Marley tribute), Paresh & Rekha, Chinese Association Southampton, Prince, and Kenwood and the Mixers, all hosted by compere Raj Ghai.
- What activities are available for families and children?
- Families can enjoy live cultural performances, street entertainers, face painting, live portrait painting, children’s activities, shopping stalls, and a wide variety of global food stalls.
- Who organises the Eastleigh Mela?
- The event is organized annually by the Asian Welfare and Cultural Association (AWCA Eastleigh).
- Where is the best place to park near Leigh Road Recreation Ground?
- Convenient parking is located right across the street at the Swan Centre Multi-Storey Car Park (SO50 5SF), Mitchell Road Multi-Storey, or the Leigh Road surface car park.