Refugee Festival Scotland is back for its 17th year from 20 June to 2 July with a programme of events across Edinburgh.
Music and dance along with visual art and discussions to help people learn more about life for refugee communities in Scotland are included.
Eleanor Harris, Refugee Festival Scotland producer, said: “So many people across Scotland have come together to welcome refugees over the last year.
“We are amazed and inspired by people’s kindness and their desire to connect with those who have come here seeking safety from war and violence in their home countries.
“Refugee Festival Scotland gives people from different backgrounds the chance to get to know each other better, to find out a little about each other’s lives and cultures and to discover what we have in common.
“With events running across the country, our festival shows Scotland at its best, friendly, welcoming, full of colour and creativity.”
Here are some of the event highlights coming to Edinburgh:
Music
Refugee Survival Trust International Concert
A concert to highlight the diversity of musicians from local and refugee communities in Edinburgh. Learn about the music and instruments of cultures from around the world, share delicious international foods, and celebrate the connections we make through music.
21 June, 7pm – 9pm. Lauriston Hall, 28 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh
Dance
Edinburgh City of Sanctuary: Ceilidh Connections
A special ceilidh to celebrate the many people, places and organisations that make Edinburgh a welcoming city for people seeking sanctuary. A family-friendly evening with shared food, followed by dancing and music from diverse community groups.
1 July, 5-11pm, Kings Hall Edinburgh
Language
Arabic Café at The Welcoming
Learn Arabic phrases, enjoy delicious snacks, good music, and meet people from around the world to celebrate the contribution of newcomers to Scotland.
26 June, 12.30 – 2.30pm The Welcoming, 20 Westfield Avenue, Edinburgh
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/arabic-cafe-at-the-welcoming-tickets-34289584069
Visual Arts
Exhibition of refugee portraits by Hannah Rose Thomas
Portrait Exhibition runs 19 – 23 June, The Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh
Exhibition Launch ‘The Art of Connection’ 21 June, 6pm – 7.45pm
Hear and see how artist Hannah Rose Thomas connected through her art with refugees in Jordan and Calais.
Places limited. Book place at launch via admin@interfaithscotland.org
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