22 things to do in Birmingham in Spring & Summer 2022

22 Things to do in Birmingham in Spring & Summer 2022

Finally, the clocks have changed, the mornings are a little lighter and the days are getting longer. Spring is here, and summer is eagerly awaiting too. So don’t miss out, make 2022 a year to remember with all these great things to see in Birmingham!

1 - Embrace sporting culture at the Commonwealth Games

We’re so proud to have the 2022 Commonwealth Games here in Birmingham. Be part of sporting history by bus this summer.

(28 July - 8 August 2022)

2 - Go old school at the Electric Cinema

Recently re-opened after surviving the pandemic, catching a film at the UK’s oldest working cinema is something everyone must do in Birmingham at least once.

3 - Enjoy a sunny rooftop drink

There’s nothing quite like a refreshing drink in the sunshine, so make the most of it at rooftop bars like the Button Factory in the Jewellery Quarter or Henman & Cooper in the city centre.

4 -  Feast on street food at Hockley Social Club

Brought to you by local nightlife legends, Digbeth Dining Club. Take on fantastic food and drink, as well as live music performances, at one of Birmingham’s premier spots for relaxed vibes.

5 - Walk through the Botanical Gardens

These beautiful gardens are a staple of West Midlands culture, with 15 acres of open spaces, flowers, stunning glasshouses and more.

6 - Sunbathe at Cannon Hill Park

Take the bus to Moseley and relax in one of our city’s most popular parks. With mini-golf, rides, boats and more, there’re plenty of ways to soak up the sun. Plus, the new story trail is a great way for 2-5 year olds to explore the park and improve their language and literacy development.

7 - See a film under the stars at Outdoor cinemas

Who doesn’t love camping out with one of their favourite films on the big screen? Catch movies all summer at Luna Springs, Mamma Mia! At Moseley Cricket Club on 10th June, or several classics at Wolverhampton Racecourse.

8 - Let your hair down at a festival

We’re spoilt for choice in Birmingham these days and it’s no different on the festival scene. There are too many to talk about here but we’re excited for MADE Festival, Birmingham Mela, and the ever-popular, Mostly Jazz, Funk and Soul Festival.

9 - Avoid a soggy bottom at Big Birmingham Bake

Ever wanted to experience life in the Bake Off tent? Well, now you can, right in the heart of Digbeth! The Big Birmingham Bake is your chance to show off your culinary skills, challenge friends and family or just enjoy some drinks and cake.

10 - Take in Brummie culture at Birmingham 2022 festival

Get involved with Birmingham’s biggest celebration of creativity, with everything from talks and workshops, to dance shows and art displays. The festival has already begun and runs right through to September, so don’t miss out!

11 - Buy and sell at Birmingham Gaming Market

No matter whether you’re into the latest console, old school arcades or just like a browse, Birmingham Gaming Market gives you the chance to buy and sell games and merchandise  from collectors and retailers from across the UK! 

(8th May 2022)

12 - Treat yourself at the Bullring & Grand Central

With over 140 shops, plenty of food options and even Tree Top Adventure Golf, you can treat every member of the family with ease at Birmingham’s Bullring and Grand Central.

13 - Find a lost relic in the HMV Vault

Visit the largest entertainment store in Europe! Find thousands of CDs, DVDs, vinyl and more under one roof. What amazing finds will you discover in the vault?

14 - Experience the games of NQ64

Is it a bar? Is it an arcade? Yes! It’s a barcade! Drop in to Digbeth’s NQ64  for some classic gaming, as well as some signature cocktails and craft beer. Choose from Playstation classics, Gamecube gems and even arcade legends like Donkey Kong and Mortal Kombat.

15 - Climb the day away at Rock Up

Boasting 26 amazing climbing walls, as well as soft play areas for younger climbers, Rock Up has you covered whether you’re taking the kids or just acting like a big kid yourself. 

16 - Walk the canals

It’s well documented that Birmingham features more canals than Venice, so why not explore them while we have the good weather? Pop up by the Mailbox or Brindley Place for a great pit stop. 

17 - Get some quiet time at the Library of Birmingham

All these activities leaving you a little tired? Get some quiet time at the Library of Birmingham. Explore several floors of amazing literature, as well as some of the best views Birmingham has to offer all in one place.

18 - Sample some spirits at Birmingham Cocktail Weekend

With multiple events occurring at venues across the city, Birmingham Cocktail Weekend is your chance to get more adventurous and sample amazing drinks from all over the globe. Which will be your new favourite?

(8th-10th July 2022)

19 - Catch a new movie at Birmingham Indian Film Festival

Whilst still currently in the planning stages, the huge success of BIFF 2021, which brought people together from across the world thanks to the festival’s digital options, ensures that the 2022 festival will be full of fantastic films in some of the city’s top picture houses. Watch this space.

20 - Party on at Birmingham Pride

End the summer with a bang this September as Pride weekend returns for two days of colourful fun and festivities. With a full lineup across four stages, as well as plenty more going on throughout Birmingham’s top LGBTQ+ venues, it’ll be one to remember.

(24th-25th September 2022)

21 - Blow the kids’ minds at Exciting Science

The Core Theatre plays host to this amazing science show that’ll show you and your children just how incredible the world of chemistry, physics and biology can be. 

(16th April 2022) 

22 - End your evening with a show

Birmingham has several beautiful theatres to catch a summer show in. Choose from big players like the Alexandra, Symphony Hall or the Hippodrome for big blockbuster shows, or get into something cosier with smaller venues like The MAC or Blue Orange Theatre.

And that's a wrap! There's so much going on this year, which ones will you be attending? Don't forget to tag us in our socials below!