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Things to do | Posted 19 Dec 2019

Looking to fill your 2020 calendar? Well, you’ll be pleased to know Birmingham’s brimming with festivals and events year-round. Take a look at the list, see if anything piques your interest and if the only thing that’s stopping you is finding somewhere to stay, check out our options at the end.

Asian Wedding Fayre

26 January 2020
If you’ve set the date and are looking for inspo then pop along to this wedding showcase event where you can meet professional Asian wedding coordinators and discuss the planning of your big day. It’ll also be attended by a whole host of hand-picked suppliers.

The Banff Mountain Film Festival

21 March 2020
Get lost in a thrilling night of adventure with a totally new collection of short films from the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival. Showing in Birmingham for one night only, you can join fearless explorers and intrepid film-makers via phenomenal cinematography.

Birmingham Anime & Gaming Con 

2-3 May 2020
An all-age event for anime fans, gamers, comic fans and cosplayers, offering a variety of activities including stalls, exhibitors, merchandise, cosplay masquerades (incl. prizes), anime screenings, tournaments, retrogaming and loads more. 

Birmingham Swing Festival

7-9 February 2020
A weekend of dance including Balboa, Lindy Hop, Shag and Solo Jazz. The event will offer beginner courses as well as higher-level tracks, and well-known guest instructors Kate Hedin & Bobby White are set to feature too. 

Birmingham Pride

23-25 May 2020
A dazzling and inclusive two-day LGBT festival starting with a carnival parade through Birmingham centre, followed by stage shows, a cabaret marquee, dance arena, funfair and street party. Then after, take your pick of the various parties and activities taking place throughout the thriving gay clubs of Birmingham. 

Birmingham Vegan Festival

28 March 2020
Indulge in vegan delicacies while browsing the ethical clothing and cruelty-free cosmetics on sale. There’ll be nutritional advice available as well as help and support on how to follow the vegan lifestyle.

The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show

20 February 2020
Anything and everything you might need for your next adventure, including products on display, expert advice, towing experience, cookery demonstrations, accessories, a live theatre, campervan test drive, special guests and loads more. 

Dementia Aware Fest

11 July 2020
An annual touring national charity festival bringing you the best original line-up of music possible in order to raise money for Dementia UK. Follow the team on Facebook to stay up-to-date with the 2020 line-up as it’s announced.

The Festival of Quilts

30 July - 2 August 2020
This comprehensive event covers the quilt industry from all angles including workshops, an academy programme, talks, lectures and fabric competitions. You’ll also be able to browse exhibits and stalls offering quilts, accessories and equipment. 

Foodies Festival & Exhibition

26-28 June 2020
Get your taste buds tingling and take a look at a wide range of products on display including everything from wine, beer and cocktails to chocolates, cakes and even restaurant services. 

The Gin & Rum Festival

2-3 October 2020
Join what promises to be the party of the year celebrating the best gin and rum on offer. Expect samples from guest distillers and themed gin and rum bars and as part of your ticket price, you’ll get free miniatures, a glass, a guide, complimentary mixers plus masterclasses, live music and a DJ.

Great Birmingham Brass Fest

19-20 January 2020
Join a stellar line up of international brass superstars for a festival of concerts, masterclasses and participatory events, plus live performances from big names in brass including Sarah Willis.

Great Birmingham 10K

31 May 2020
Raise money and get your blood pumping while running around world-famous heritage sites and some of Birmingham’s top attractions. Entries are now open and if you take part you’ll receive a goodie-filled finishers pack including a medal and t-shirt. 

Great British Beer Festival

4-8 February 2020
By invitation of CAMRA, enjoy ales of every style and shade served in cask, key keg and bottle, plus international beers, ciders, gins and more. There’ll also be local food vendors, tutoring and talks, and live music and entertainment. 

Kendal Mountain Festival UK

16 May 2020
Fire up your imagination and watch a brand new collection of short films of human endurance, breath-taking environments and soul-stirring journeys. Plus a live talk from one of the world’s top adventurers.

MADE Festival 2020

1 August 2020
Birmingham’s largest festival showcasing the vibrant street culture within the city, featuring the region’s finest street food, street art displays, installations and live demonstrations, as well as world-class DJ sets and live acts.

Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul Festival

10-12 July 2020
A weekend of blistering live music showcasing everything from international legends to the latest contemporary breakthrough artists from the world of jazz, funk and soul. To hear about the line-up as it’s revealed, head to the official event Facebook page.

Prosecco Festival

20 June 2020
The UK’s first and biggest prosecco festival will offer over 30 varieties of fizz and a handpicked selection of gins, plus Italian street food and live music & entertainment. It’s a must for any prosecco-lover.

Rugby Ramble

23 February 2020
Join Birmingham’s St Mary’s Hospice and raise money for a great cause by taking part in a sponsored 10k walk through picturesque parks followed by refreshments and the England vs Ireland Six Nations game in the pub.  

TILT Festival

13-19 July 2020
An awe-inspiring week of aerial training and performances from world-class artists. At Birmingham’s only dedicated aerial and physical theatre festival you’ll find a marketplace and pitch, young people’s work, scratch shows and loads more.

Whisky Birmingham 2020

7 March 2020
The city’s flagship whisky festival returns for its eighth year and in 2020 you can expect major whisky brands, independent bottlers and local experts, unique masterclasses and collaborations, over 25 exhibitors and 250 whiskies, plus music and street food vendors and stalls.


Found something that tickles your fancy? If you’ve found your event but now need somewhere to stay for the night then check out our conveniently located hotel in the heart of Birmingham.

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