International Celebration at Art in the Park 2025
Milton Keynes Islamic Arts and Culture returns for its annual International Celebration with the Art in the Park festival – a free, family-friendly day of culture, creativity and belonging.
On Saturday 21 June from 1pm to 9pm, Campbell Park will come alive for Art in the Park 2025: An International Celebration of Culture, Creativity and Belonging. Held during Refugee Week (16-22 June 2025), this year’s event explores the theme of “Belonging” – shining a light on the resilience, stories and contributions of refugees through music, dance, food and visual arts.
The day will be filled with live performances, vibrant workshops, global cuisine, and opportunities to connect through shared creative experiences. All are welcome to take part in this joyful celebration of diversity and community.
At the heart of the event is the Parade of Colours, a dynamic street procession led by Kinetika Bloco, featuring stunning banners created by local artists and school children. Everyone is invited to walk in the parade and share their cultural identity with pride.
What’s on:
Live Performances
Sefo Kanuteh: Acclaimed Gambian Kora and Balafon player
Greek Performers: Traditional music and high-energy folk dancing
Satyam Dance: Contemporary cultural performance
Afghan Performers: A showcase of Afghan heritage through music and dance
Yemeni Cultural Music Group: Traditional Yemeni sounds and rhythms
Art Marquee
Participate in a variety of engaging art workshops and demonstrations including:
Adam Khalifa's Tote Bag Workshop
Learn the Art of Heat Pressing using designs inspired by Islamic Art: In this creative session, you'll discover how to turn intricate patterns into stunning, usable art by understanding vinyl-cutting and heat press techniques. By the end of the workshop, you'll take home a personalised tote bag with the elegant Islamic geometry and craftsmanship. Each session is £10 and includes all materials and a tote bag to take home.
The Tree of Life with the GRACE project
Add your contribution to our growing artwork - the tree of life! Celebrate our shared genetic heritage and our diversity. Free to attend
Arts & genetics workshop
Explore genomics and health while decorating a tote bag with expressive designs using stencils and fabric pens. £10 per session and a tote bag to take home! Create bold, colourful designs using stencils and fabric paints.
Islamic Calligraphy Workshop with acclaimed artist Abu Yahya
Join esteemed calligrapher Abu Yahya - born in Pakistan, now based in London – for a FREE 45-minute hands-on workshop exploring the beauty of Islamic calligraphy. Under his expert guidance, you’ll learn traditional techniques and create your very own elegant calligraphic piece.
Turkish Marbling Workshop (Ebru)
Discover the traditional art of Ebru, where vibrant patterns are created by floating pigments on thickened water and then gently transferring the design onto paper. This mesmerising technique allows you to produce unique, marbled artworks using delicate brushwork and careful paper placement. Free to attend.
Funfair: Colourful rides and games for the whole family
Food Village: Enjoy delicious and affordable dishes from cultures around the world. New vendors are welcome to apply!
Parade of Colours: A lively, inclusive procession celebrating identity, unity and sustainability. Everyone is welcome to join in.
Art in the Park FAQs
Date: Saturday 21st June 2025
Time: 1PM-9PM
Venue: Campbell Park Pavilion, 1300 Silbury Boulevard, Milton Keynes, MK9 4AD
Free entry for all
Fully accessible event site
No tickets required
Pre booking required for the tote bag workshops
Join MKIAC and the Milton Keynes community for a powerful and joyful celebration of culture, creativity and belonging
For more event information and participation opportunities contact: mkiac@mkcollege.ac.uk