Unforgettable August Bank Holiday in Birmingham: Best Events & Activities to Enjoy

The August Bank Holiday in Birmingham is a time to celebrate summer in the city with a wide variety of exciting events and activities for all ages. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the weekend, there’s something for everyone, from vibrant festivals to cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. In this guide, we’ve compiled the best events and activities to enjoy during the August Bank Holiday in Birmingham, ensuring you make the most of this unforgettable long weekend.

1. Birmingham International Dance Festival (BIDF)

The Birmingham International Dance Festival (BIDF) is a vibrant, dynamic celebration that attracts dance enthusiasts from all over the globe. Held annually in Birmingham, this festival offers a diverse array of performances showcasing various dance styles, including modern, classical ballet, street dance, and experimental forms. With a blend of free outdoor events and ticketed performances, BIDF makes world-class dance accessible to everyone. It highlights the city’s rich cultural diversity, featuring both local talent and internationally acclaimed dancers. In addition to performances, attendees have the opportunity to participate in workshops and masterclasses, enriching their dance experience. Whether you’re a seasoned dance lover or a newcomer, BIDF promises an unforgettable experience filled with creativity, culture, and movement.

Key Highlights:

• Diverse Dance Styles: Features a wide range of dance styles, from modern and street dance to classical ballet and experimental movements.
• Free Outdoor Events: Enjoy stunning performances in iconic public spaces around Birmingham without needing a ticket.
• Ticketed Performances: Watch world-renowned dancers and choreographers in specially curated, ticketed performances.
• Local & International Talent: Showcases both local talent and famous international dancers, bringing a global perspective to the festival.
• Workshops and Masterclasses: Opportunities to learn from professional dancers and choreographers, enhancing the festival experience.
• Cultural Celebration: A wonderful reflection of Birmingham’s cultural diversity, highlighting the power of dance to bring people together.
• Suitable for All: Whether you’re an experienced dancer or a first-time attendee, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

2. Explore Birmingham’s Canals by Boat

Birmingham’s canals, often referred to as the city’s “hidden gems,” provide a unique and scenic way to explore this vibrant metropolis. With over 35 miles of canals weaving through the city, Birmingham offers one of the largest canal networks in the UK. Exploring these historic waterways by boat allows you to see the city from a completely different perspective, while learning about its rich industrial heritage.

Taking a canal boat tour is a relaxed and leisurely way to discover Birmingham’s history, architecture, and culture. These tours typically pass through picturesque spots such as the Jewellery Quarter, Brindleyplace, and the Gas Street Basin, offering insight into the city’s transformation from an industrial powerhouse to a modern cultural hub.

Why You Should Explore Birmingham’s Canals by Boat:

• Scenic Views: The canals offer beautiful, often tranquil, views that are only accessible by boat. Whether you’re cruising past historic buildings, modern developments, or nature-filled sections, it’s a picturesque journey.
• Historical Significance: Learn about Birmingham’s industrial past, as the canals were once vital for transporting goods during the Industrial Revolution. Many tours provide interesting commentary on how the canals played a role in shaping the city’s growth.
• Relaxed Experience: Whether you’re on a public tour or hiring your own private boat, canal boat rides are an incredibly relaxing way to see the city. Some boats offer picnic or dining options, making it a peaceful experience.
• Family-Friendly: A canal boat tour is an ideal family outing. Children will love the gentle ride, and families can enjoy the sights, sounds, and history of Birmingham’s waterways.

Types of Canal Boat Experiences in Birmingham

• Guided Canal Boat Tours: These tours are ideal for first-time visitors. You’ll have a guide on board who provides commentary about the canals’ history, the landmarks you’ll pass, and fun facts about the area. Some popular tours include stops at places like Gas Street Basin and The Mailbox.
  
• Private Canal Boat Hire: If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, why not hire a private canal boat? You can take control of your journey, enjoy a peaceful ride with friends or family, and even bring your own picnic.
  
• Themed Canal Tours: Some boat tours offer themed experiences, such as historical tours, wildlife spotting, or evening cruises with dinner or drinks, giving you the chance to enjoy the canals while watching the city lights reflect off the water.

3. Birmingham Pride

The city comes alive as the Pride Parade marches from Victoria Square. A huge crowd shows its support for LGBTQ+ rights in a burst of colour and energy. A wave of vibrant costumes and music washes over the streets. Everyone—participants and spectators alike—joins in a celebration of love, equality, and togetherness.

Once the parade reaches the Pride Village, the fun doesn’t stop. This vibrant spot has it all: famous performers, drag shows, and audience participation! Festival-goers rave about the DJ sets; both local and international artists electrify the crowd.

For those looking to immerse themselves in the full spirit of Birmingham Pride, the Pride Village is the place to be. Find LGBTQ+ organisations, tasty food and drinks, and amazing queer-owned businesses to check out. Learning and fun mix together! They have workshops and talks about LGBTQ+ rights and being inclusive.

Why You Should Attend Birmingham Pride:

• Celebrate Diversity: It’s a vibrant, inclusive festival that brings people together from all walks of life to support LGBTQ+ rights and celebrate diversity.
• Live Performances & Entertainment: Enjoy spectacular performances from drag queens, artists, and live bands, plus an exciting lineup of DJ sets across multiple stages.
• Pride Parade: Witness one of the most colourful and energetic parades, starting at Victoria Square and spreading love and solidarity throughout the city.
• Pride Village: Immerse yourself in the Pride Village for shopping, food, drinks, and community engagement. You can also attend workshops and hear from inspiring speakers.
• Inclusive and Welcoming: It’s an incredibly welcoming atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to celebrate their authentic selves and enjoy the festival without fear of discrimination.

Key Highlights:

• Pride Parade starts at Victoria Square
• Live music and performances by local and international artists
• DJ sets from top names in the industry
• Pride Village with food stalls, shopping, and community spaces
• Workshops and talks on LGBTQ+ issues and inclusivity

4. Birmingham Food and Drink Festival

Foodies in Birmingham eagerly anticipate the annual Food and Drink Festival. This event showcases the best of local and international cuisine, creating a truly immersive experience. Local chefs, breweries, and food trucks create a fun, delicious atmosphere at Birmingham’s annual food festival. Get ready to eat!

Street food from all over the world will be at the festival! You’ll find tons of options to please any taste bud. Imagine this: savoury gourmet burgers, crispy wood-fired pizzas, exciting vegan dishes, and delightful sweets. This festival is a delicious adventure waiting to happen. Prepare your taste buds!

The best part? The focus is on yummy local treats! Discover Birmingham’s delicious bounty: from cheeses and chocolates made with care, to locally brewed beers and creative cocktails. Foodies can watch chefs show off their skills during live cooking demos! They share great tips and tricks.

Location: Birmingham City Centre or Birmingham Hippodrome

What to Do:

• Indulge in a wide range of street food stalls offering local and international cuisine.
• Sample delicious treats from Birmingham’s best local eateries, including artisanal products and fresh ingredients.
• Discover unique craft beers from local breweries and enjoy tasting sessions.
• Attend live cooking demonstrations and discover new culinary skills from local chefs.
• Relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with music, entertainment, and great food and drink all around.

5. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (BMAG)

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (BMAG) is a cultural treasure located in the heart of Birmingham. Don’t miss this museum! Its amazing collection of art, history, and culture will immerse you in the city’s heritage. BMAG boasts stunning Pre-Raphaelite artwork and engaging historical displays; a truly diverse and rewarding experience awaits you there. The museum offers something for everyone. Art lovers and history buffs alike will find plenty to enjoy at this museum; it explores Birmingham’s artistic heritage and its industrial past.

Edward Burne-Jones, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, and John Everett Millais: just a few of the artistic giants whose works grace BMAG’s extraordinary Pre-Raphaelite collection—one of the best in the world. The museum houses a stunning collection of art. But that’s not all! They regularly update their temporary exhibits, showcasing both historical masterpieces and cutting-edge modern works. Expect something new each time you visit.

This museum’s organisation is brilliant. You’ll travel through art history, witnessing Birmingham’s dramatic Industrial Revolution makeover. The story unfolds before your eyes, period by period.

This August Bank Holiday, spend a few hours at BMAG! See famous paintings and learn about the city’s history.

Location: Chamberlain Square, Birmingham City Centre

What to Do:

• Explore the museum’s extensive art collection, especially the Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces by celebrated artists.
• Visit immersive displays and temporary exhibitions that provide unique perspectives on art, culture, and history.
• Learn about Birmingham’s industrial history, and how the city played a pivotal role during the Industrial Revolution.
• Enjoy a peaceful visit through the tranquil galleries, offering an escape into the world of creativity and reflection.

Highlights of Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (BMAG)

• Pre-Raphaelite Masterpieces: View world-renowned paintings and artworks by Edward Burne-Jones, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, and John Everett Millais.
• Historical Exhibitions: Discover Birmingham’s industrial heritage and its key role in the Industrial Revolution through engaging and interactive displays.
• Changing Exhibitions: Enjoy a range of temporary exhibitions, including both contemporary and historical themes.
• Interactive Art & History: Dive into the immersive displays for a hands-on, educational experience.
• Stunning Architecture: Admire the museum’s beautiful Victorian building located in the heart of Birmingham’s cultural district.

6. Cadbury World

Cadbury World in Bournville, Birmingham is a chocolate lover’s dream come true—fun for everyone! This place is perfect for families! Expect a day packed with interactive games, thrilling rides, and awesome live shows. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate or simply looking for a delightful day out, Cadbury World has something for everyone.

Cadbury’s amazing journey from its origins to global chocolate domination is revealed. This is where your chocolate exploration begins; it’s a captivating story. Interactive exhibits explain the chocolate-making process step-by-step. It’s a sweet journey from bean to bar, and you get to sample the treats along the way.

Looking for some fun? Cadbury World’s rides and attractions are a blast! Take a magical trip on the Cadabra ride through a chocolate wonderland! Or, for a different kind of adventure, try the 4D Chocolate Adventure; it’s an immersive movie experience all about Cadbury chocolate. There’s also The World’s Biggest Cadbury Shop, where you can indulge in a variety of Cadbury treats and chocolates to take home.

Location: Bourneville, Birmingham

What to Do:

• Explore the history of chocolate and the story behind the iconic Cadbury brand.
• Enjoy a fun, interactive experience with exhibits that showcase the chocolate-making process.
• Take a ride on the Cadabra ride through a magical chocolate-themed wonderland.
• Watch an immersive 4D Chocolate Adventure film for a unique and engaging experience.
• Visit the World’s Biggest Cadbury Shop, and indulge in a variety of Cadbury treats.
• Take part in live shows and entertainment that bring the chocolate world to life.

Highlights of Cadbury World

• Interactive Exhibits: Learn all about the history and magic of chocolate making through hands-on displays and demonstrations.
• Fun Rides & Attractions: Enjoy the Cadabra ride and 4D Chocolate Adventure for a thrilling and magical experience.
• Cadbury Chocolate Shop: Shop for a wide range of exclusive Cadbury products that you can’t find anywhere else.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy live shows that celebrate the fun and excitement of the Cadbury brand.
• Family Fun: Perfect for families and kids of all ages to have an unforgettable experience

7. Jewellery Quarter Tour

Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter: a historic neighborhood, it’s been a big part of the UK’s jewelry business for over two centuries. The Jewellery Quarter is a well-known area of the city; it offers a great look at the history and skill behind some of the world’s finest jewelry. Think intricate designs and skilled artisans! Take a stroll and witness the history of Birmingham’s jewelry trade firsthand. The incredible skill of its workers made this place a global leader.

During the Jewellery Quarter Tour, you will explore the narrow, cobbled streets, which are lined with historic buildings that house small independent jewelry shops, workshops, and galleries. Famous British jewelry designs were born on these streets, and beautiful pieces are still crafted here. Imagine a small group of factories. Now picture a thriving jewelry district. That’s the incredible transformation your tour guides will describe. They’ll reveal how it all happened.

Highlights of the Jewellery Quarter Tour

• Historic Walking Tour: Wander through the cobbled streets of the Jewellery Quarter, soaking in the history of this iconic district.
• Smith & Pepper Jewelry Museum: Explore a museum dedicated to showcasing Birmingham’s rich jewelry heritage, with a focus on traditional techniques and tools.
• Craftsmanship and Artistry: Gain a deep understanding of the intricate processes that go into making high-quality jewelry, from design to creation.
• Art Galleries and Workshops: Discover contemporary jewelry designs in the district’s galleries and artisan workshops.
• Unique Shopping Experience: Visit independent jewelry shops where you can purchase custom pieces and rare finds made by local artisans.
• Educational and Cultural Insights: Learn about the industrial significance of the area and its global influence on the jewelry market.

8. Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Escape the Birmingham city buzz and find some calm at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens in Edgbaston. Escape to nature in these beautiful gardens, spread across 15 acres. Spend a tranquil afternoon or enjoy a day of fun with loved ones.

A place bursting with colour—that’s the Botanical Gardens. Trees, flowers, and plants from every corner of the earth create a breathtaking spectacle. The beauty changes throughout the year, offering something new each season. Every part of the garden offers something special; they’re all quite different. Exotic plants fill the tropical glasshouses; cacti, palms, and orchids create a surreal atmosphere. Birds sing sweetly as you stroll through the gardens; it’s so peaceful and calming.

What to Do:

• Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, including themed sections such as tropical glasshouses, cacti collections, and orchid displays.
• Explore the wildlife-rich gardens, observing butterflies, birds, and small animals as you walk along tranquil paths.
• Enjoy a peaceful picnic in one of the many scenic spots surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant floral displays.
• Visit the café for a relaxing break with delicious refreshments and snacks.
• Take a moment to unwind and reconnect with nature in a serene setting, away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Highlights of Birmingham Botanical Gardens

• Tropical Glasshouses: Home to a variety of exotic plants, including palm trees, cacti, and orchids.
• Wildlife and Flora: A haven for nature lovers with its diverse range of plants and wildlife.
• Serene Walking Paths: Perfect for a relaxing stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Picnic Areas: Ideal for families and groups looking to enjoy a picnic in a picturesque setting.
• Café with Scenic Views: Take a break and enjoy some light refreshments while overlooking the gardens.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or just someone in need of a peaceful getaway, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens offers a memorable and relaxing experience perfect for the August Bank Holiday.

Book Your Paint and Sip Session with Prime Pass this August Bank Holiday in Birmingham!

Looking for a fun and creative way to spend your August Bank Holiday? Prime Pass Paint and Sip sessions in Birmingham are the perfect choice for a relaxing and enjoyable day. Whether you want to unwind solo or bond with friends, our sessions offer a unique opportunity to enjoy painting while sipping your favourite drink.

What to Expect at Prime Pass:

• 🎨 Expert guidance from talented artists, leading you step by step in creating your own artwork
• 🍷 A wide selection of drinks, including wine, beer, and cocktails to enjoy while you paint
• 🤩 A relaxed, social atmosphere, making it perfect for a group of friends, date night, or a solo creative adventure

Looking for a Team-building Activity?

Prime Pass also offers Team Building Paint and Sip sessions for corporate groups, providing an excellent way to promote creativity and teamwork in a fun and friendly environment.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience! Book Your Paint and Sip Session with Prime Pass today and make the most of your August Bank Holiday in Birmingham!