Islamic Arts and Culture ‘Free Festival’ unites through art & food

The event took place this weekend in Buckinghamshire…

At a time when global divisions are deepening, one grassroots charity in Milton Keynes is doing the opposite by bringing people together.

Over 15,000 people gathered on Saturday at Art in the Park 2025, a free, family-friendly festival organised by Milton Keynes Islamic Arts and Culture (MKIAC). Held during UN International Refugee Week, the event celebrated diversity, inclusion, and cultural pride through a powerful programme of music, performance, workshops and food.

From traditional Yemeni dance and Caribbean steel drums to Islamic calligraphy and Syrian music, it was a day of joy and shared humanity, led by refugees, artists and local communities. The Parade of Colours, created by youth groups and local artists ignited the city centre through music and dance.

In a world that needs more belonging, MKIAC delivered a vibrant and hopeful message: art is resistance, and culture is connection.