Khushi Festival will return to Oldham on Saturday 1 August, offering a day-long celebration of South Asian culture with comedy, music, theatre, art and free family activities across venues in the town. The annual festival of happiness aims to bring together residents of all ages and backgrounds, fostering community spirit through shared experiences.

Award-winning comedian Shazia Mirza headlines with a performance that uses humour to explore family life, relationships and modern culture, while British Asian singer Satnam Galsian presents Love or Sacrifice, a piece that fuses Punjabi folk music with discussions on gender expectations and women's experiences in South Asian society.

The programme also includes CHAI Stories, a family theatre production from Kauser Mukhtar and the West Oldham CHAI Project, and a one-woman comedy drama by Amina Aaliya Beg titled My Mum Told Me Not To Marry A xxxx. These shows highlight the rich storytelling traditions within the community.

Interactive activities such as Lilo Lost It! and the Actual Reality Arcade game zone provide hands-on entertainment for younger visitors, while Gallery Oldham and Oldham Library host Waterfall of Kites, a large installation with new commissions from local artists including Samaya Javed, Iqra Khadiza and Dada Zubeda. The day also features Whirling Dervish experiences, spoken word sessions, communal dining and street food.

Attendees can partake in kite making, henna art and dressing up, ensuring there is plenty for families to enjoy. The festival is free to attend, with most activities offered at no cost, making it accessible for everyone in Oldham and the surrounding areas.

Martina Murphy, chief executive of Oldham Coliseum Theatre, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be part of bringing Khushi to Oldham once again. It captures the kind of cultural experience we want Oldham Coliseum Theatre to champion – joyful, welcoming, multigenerational and deeply connected to community.”

Najma Khalid MBE DL, founder and artistic engagement director of Khushi Festival, said: “Khushi is a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, joy and togetherness, bringing people from across Oldham and beyond together through music, performance, storytelling, food, art and shared cultural experiences.”

The festival is a testament to Oldham’s diverse cultural landscape, providing a platform for local artists and community groups to showcase their talents. It aims to strengthen community bonds and promote cultural understanding through accessible arts programming.

For more details on venues, timings and the full programme, visit the Oldham Coliseum Theatre website or check their programme. Updates will be posted as the event approaches.