The school summer holidays are on their way. Many families will have elaborate summer plans on foreign shores but there’s a lot going on in and around Birmingham before and after you had off - and if you’re staying put.
Instead of letting the cost of living crisis play a dampener on your summer plans, you can check out these free, family-friendly events taking place across the city.
From hands-on workshops at the University of Birmingham to beaches in Birmingham and Solihull - there are many fun things to do. And, don’t forget the massive 10 day Birmingham Festival, which starts on July 28 at Centenary Square to celebrate the anniversary of Commonwealth Games which brought millions to our city last year.
Birmingham city centre will come alive with dance, music, and more - keeping us well and truly entertained us during the event which finishes with a grand finale on August 6. There is so much more taking place in Birmingham where you will have to get your hands dirty and create amazing things at these free events. Here are 12 free, family friendly events taking place in and around Birmingham during the summer holidays:
1. Birmingham Beach and Digbeth Funfair 2023
The Birmingham Beach and Digbeth Funfair will take place at the Smithfield Festival Site on Pershore Street in 2023. The fair is underway until August 29, lasting the duration of the school holidays. There’s going to be a number of water slides and water pools, sand, and hopefull, some sun too! (Photo - Birmingham Beach and Digbeth Funfair 2023)
2. Birmingham Festival 2023
From July 28 to August 6, Centenary Square will be hosting Birmingham Festival 2023 to celebrate Commonwealth Games legacy. There will be live acts, fun activities, and big screen entertainment. The summer of live music, dance and performance will bring big names like Apache Indian, renowned opera singer Abigail Kelly, Qawwali music, Girl Grind UK, and so much more. There will be a regular morning slot hosted by Commonwealth Games Mascot Perry and you can enjoy power hour every evening at 6pm with fun workouts and easy-to-follow classes. (Photo - Birmingham Festival 2023)
3. Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, Millenium Point
Entry to the Science Garden is free after 3pm every day. From science experiments to rides, there’s much to explore at this garden. (Photo - Google Maps)
4. Learn fishing in Sparkbrook
The Canal & River Trust will host several lessons for those who want to learn to fish. A team of professionally qualified and licensed angling coaches will be teaching free of cost. It’s open to people of all ages. It takes place at Grand Union Canal, Ackers Adventure Golden Hilloock Road, Sparkbrook on July 28, August 2 and 9. The event starts at 9.30am and ends at 4pm. (Photo - smiltena - stock.adobe.com)