Ipswich: Multicultural festival success as thousands attend

The One Big Multicultural Festival was once again held at Alexandra Park, for a day full of live music from around the world, dancing, sport and food.

Thousands were in attendance as the cultures of countries around the world such as China, India, Brazil, Romania, England and more were celebrated.

The team behind the One Big Multicultural Festival. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

Cultures of countries around the world were celebrated. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

This year marked the 11th edition of the festival, held by BSC Multicultural Services.

Mojlum Kahn, organiser of the event, said: "The whole park was packed.

"It was an absolutely amazing turnout and the whole world was represented.

Thousands of people were in the park. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

A celebration of culture was held, with established figures in attendance. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

"We want to bring people together, and break down barriers so that we get to enjoy what is common to all of us such as music, food and sport.

"Everyone had a great time, the sun was shining and I think it was the best event we have had to date."

Lynne Mortimer, Mayor of Ipswich, said: "It's an absolutely fantastic celebration of culture in Ipswich.

People were dancing, enjoying the music. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

Lots of people were in attendance at the festival. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

"This is just part of a big fantastic Ipswich summer, with so many free events, and everyone is so happy"

Tim Passmore, Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner, was also in attendance.

He said: "This event really recognises the enormous variety and richness of different cultures and backgrounds, not just in Ipswich, but the whole county.

Families were in attendance at Alexandra Park. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

Trophies were given out for a football tournament, while there was also cricket and Indian sport, Kabaddi. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

"Each year this festival goes from strength to strength and it is just the sort of thing we need to bring people together and learn from each other."

Jack Abbott, Labour candidate for Ipswich, said: "Some people say that Ipswich has nothing going for it, and that it is a divided town.

People were dancing to the music. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

Families were enjoying the sun. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

"But seeing thousands here in the sun, enjoying the food, the music, the dancing, and everything else that is on offer, things are happening in Ipswich.

"We should be so proud to have this here."

People enjoyed the music throughout the day. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

There was a good atmosphere at the festival. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)