Bringing communities together through free events in Middlesbrough [Archived]

Middlesbrough will once again be alive with colour, music and culture – and at Thirteen, we’re proud to play our part in making it happen.

We’ve joined Middlesbrough Council’s Cultural Ambassadors scheme, standing alongside Holiday Inn Express, Teesside University and Stagecoach North East. Together we’ve created a £20,000 fund to support local creative and community groups to plan and deliver a packed programme of free events for everyone to enjoy.

 From family-friendly activities to large festivals, there’s something for everyone to get involved in. Highlights include:

• Middlesbrough Mela – a vibrant weekend of music, dance, food and culture
• Middlesbrough Pride – celebrating equality, inclusion and love
• Taste of Africa at Orange Pip – bringing people together through food and stories
• Middlesbrough Art Week – free creative experiences for all ages
• A Nightfall pop-up in the town centre – adding light, wonder and magic to our streets

For us, supporting these events is about more than funding. It’s about creating opportunities for people to come together, share experiences, and celebrate the diversity of our communities.

Kathryn Whittle, our director of corporate affairs at Thirteen, said:

"Supporting this programme is an investment in the strength and vibrancy of our communities. At Thirteen, we’re committed not only to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive but also to empowering our customers to celebrate the rich diversity of the areas we serve.

We’re proud to play a part in bringing people together to promote inclusion and understanding. Following our sponsorship of the Hartlepool Pride event in July, we’re excited to continue that celebration with our customers in Middlesbrough at events like Middlesbrough Mela, Middlesbrough Pride and the Christmas Lights Switch-On."

 We believe these free events help strengthen community spirit, give people new experiences, and make Middlesbrough a place we can all be proud of. These events are set to be great fun and celebrations of togetherness and creativity. We can’t wait to see our communities enjoying every moment.

 For further information about Middlesbrough Council’s Cultural Ambassador scheme, please visit https://www.wearemiddlesbrough.com/cultural-ambassadors/