Bristol is home to a vibrant range of communities, each with their own unique customs, cultures, celebrations and history. The Bristol Celebrates festival will celebrate all the different cultures and faiths that make Bristol such a special place to live. There will be an exciting and diverse programme of workshops, guest speakers, music, performance, exhibitions, displays and food on offer throughout the day. It’s a chance to learn about others’ faiths and beliefs, and to make new friends.

The details of the exciting and diverse programme are still being finalised, but in very broad strokes here’s an outline of what we are planning for the day:

Free Workshops from 12.30 – 2pm and 3 – 4.30pm – suitable for children and adults

* Demonstrations of Faith – rituals and artefacts explained
* Tastes of Faith – sample foods eaten during festivals
* Calligraphy, Drumming, Henna/Mehndi, Crafts
* Storytelling – from around the world
* Labyrinth – walk and meditate
* Short Films about faith and culture
* Dancing and Chanting – watch and listen or participate!

Plus discussions, online faith map, exhibition stands and prayer and quiet spaces.

Guest Speakers from 2pm

Humera Khan – founding member of An-Nisa Society, a women’s organisation working for the welfare of families. She also runs a Jewish-Muslim dialogue group and has recently joined the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Christian-Muslim Forum.

Tim Pemberton – Managing Editor of BBC Radio Bristol. A broadcasting veteran, Tim has specialised in making religious and ethical radio programmes.

Spoken Word from 3pm, with Dr Edson Burton, Shagufta Kasour and guests

Diverse Choirs from 4pm, including Bristol’s One World Choir

Live Music from 6pm, including Inter faith jam session with David Mowat and guests, and headliners RSVP, the South West’s Superstar Bhangra Band!

Refreshments, including lunch and dinner, will be available to purchase throughout the day.

More details will be added to the programme in the next few weeks so please check regularly to keep up-to-date with all new additions.

Venue: The City Academy, Russell Town Avenue, Lawrence Hill, Bristol, BS5 9JH.

For further information please visit the Bristol Celebrates website.