Following the huge success of last year’s DIASPORA! Festival— which welcomed over 10,000 attendees and platformed more than 200 artists across the South West — Diverse Artists Network (DAN) returned on the May Bank Holiday, 2nd to 5th May, with Mini-DIASPORA! 2025.
Marking the legacy of the flagship festival and building momentum toward 2026, Mini-DIASPORA! offered a vibrant long weekend of creativity, culture, and connection.
“DIASPORA! 24 resonated so well across the city, I’m very happy that we are marking the dates with a Mini-DIASPORA! for 2025 as we plan and plot for 2026!
Founding Director
Deasy Bamford
What is DIASPORA!?
DIASPORA! is a unique, multidisciplinary arts festival created for Bristol and the South West, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the region. Developed, produced and presented by Diverse Artists Network, the festival champions artists from underrepresented and global majority backgrounds, creating opportunities for visibility, collaboration and growth.
“I made connections and memories for life due to [DAN]’s vision.”
participating artist
This year’s programme brought back some festival favourites while spotlighting new talent across multiple community-driven events!
First Friday
BREATHE SING AND SHARE
Sat 3 May 11:00-13:00
3 Conway Rd, BS4 3RE
PHUNGULA is a healing workshop inspired by African practices, offering breathwork, singing, and sharing to reconnect with self led by Sisanda Myataza. A warm, confidential space—feel lighter, refreshed, and supported. £12 entry.
Social Sundays
Bristol Ferries
Sing on the Ferry with Gena Rose
Kia mau ki te tokanga nui-a-noho, There is No Place Like Home
Sat 10 – Sun 11 May
Art Mansion, BS41 9JN
Join Tia Reihana and Cleo Lake in a transformative dance workshop blending climate justice, belonging, and storytelling—exploring home through movement, ancestral wisdom, and nature-connected, collective expression.
