Birmingham is a city rich in cultural diversity and artistic expression, and comes alive with a plethora of festivals throughout the year. From music and arts to design and LGBTQ+ celebrations, Birmingham hosts a variety of events that cater to diverse tastes and interests. Here are the top five festivals that you shouldn't miss when visiting this vibrant city.
Moseley Folk and Arts Festival
Nestled in the heart of Moseley Park, the Moseley Folk and Arts Festival is a celebration of music, arts and community spirit. This annual event, usually held in early September, showcases a diverse line-up of folk, acoustic and indie artists. The lush greenery of Moseley Park provides a picturesque backdrop for the festival, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for attendees. From established headliners to emerging talents, the Moseley Folk and Arts Festival is a must-visit for music enthusiasts seeking a unique and intimate experience.
Mostly Jazz Festival
For those with an interest in jazz and soul, the Mostly Jazz Festival is a standout event in Birmingham's cultural calendar. Again, set in the idyllic surroundings of Moseley Park, this festival attracts world-class jazz musicians and soulful performers. The diverse line-up ensures that there's something for everyone, from classic jazz aficionados to those discovering the genre for the first time. The family-friendly atmosphere and the scenic location make Mostly Jazz Festival a perfect summer outing for music lovers of all ages.
Birmingham Design Festival
Design enthusiasts rejoice, for the Birmingham Design Festival (BDF) is a celebration of creativity, innovation and all things design related. Spanning over 20 different venues across Birmingham, including our own City Centre Campus and STEAMhouse, this annual event brings together designers, artists and industry professionals to explore the latest trends and ideas in the world of design. With a range of workshops, talks, and exhibitions, the Birmingham Design Festival provides a platform for both established and emerging designers to showcase their work and engage with a like-minded audience. Whether you're a design professional or simply appreciate creative expression, this festival offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of design.
SHOUT Festival
Dedicated to celebrating and promoting LGBTQ+ arts and culture, SHOUT Festival is a vital and empowering event in Birmingham. Through a diverse program of performances, films, discussions, and workshops, SHOUT Festival creates a space for dialogue and celebration within the community. Held annually, this festival encourages inclusivity and understanding, fostering a sense of unity and pride. The festival not only provides a platform for LGBTQ+ artists but also promotes awareness and acceptance within the wider community.
MADE Festival
MADE are committed to showcasing incredible music, art and local talent in their spiritual home of Digbeth. This year, MADE have reimagined how festivals should be, deciding to host a number of events throughout the summer rather than one big weekend event. This new focus on festival-style day parties is bound to be a hit.
MELA
The UK's biggest South Asian music festival takes place in Victoria Park this summer. Establish in 2011, Birmingham Mela stages some of the biggest names from UK and overseas entertainment, alongside homegrown talent from across the UK.
Simmer Down
Simmer Down focuses on the art of peace, love and unity. Organised by the UK's premier reggae music and arts development agency, the festival is dedicated to celebrating cultural diversity by developing, commissioning, programming and touring high quality artistic projects. The award-winning annual festival is a showcase of everything Simmer Down has to offer.
Birmingham's festival scene is a testament to the city's dynamic and inclusive cultural landscape. From the serene ambiance of Moseley Park to the vibrant celebrations of LGBTQ+ culture, each festival offers a unique experience that contributes to Birmingham's status as a cultural hub in the UK. For more information, we've created a handy A-Z guide of Birmingham to help you get to know the city better.