As February half term approaches, families across Birmingham and the wider West Midlands region are seeking engaging activities to entertain children during the school break. Numerous attractions, museums, and cultural venues have planned special events, with several offering free entry or discounted rates, providing excellent value for families.
Free Cultural Events in Birmingham City Centre
The Birmingham Light Festival returns to illuminate the city centre from Thursday, February 12th to Sunday, February 15th. This entirely free event features captivating installations, including a field of fireflies in St Paul's Square, fire performances at Bullring, and a giant glittering disco ball along the canals. It offers a magical outdoor experience perfect for families.
Another complimentary activity is the Art School... in a Trail! at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery in Chamberlain Square. Running from February 14th to 22nd, this interactive spotter trail invites children aged nine and above, along with their families, to engage with the museum's collections through creative missions. Participants can complete an activity sheet to earn a sticker and enter a drawing competition.
Celebratory Festivals Across the Region
Birmingham's Chinese New Year celebrations offer a vibrant, free programme in Hippodrome Square, Southside, from Tuesday, February 17th to Sunday, February 22nd. The festivities include traditional lion processions, music, dance, theatre performances, market stalls, and funfair rides, welcoming the Year of the Horse.
In Solihull, Touchwood shopping centre hosts a free Lunar New Year event on Saturday, February 21st. Families can enjoy Mahjong workshops, face painting, calligraphy, and a lion dance parade, celebrating in partnership with the local Hong Kong community.
Discounted Theme Park Adventures
Drayton Manor in Tamworth presents a K-Pop Week from Saturday, February 14th to Monday, February 23rd. The event features live performances, dance workshops, and fancy dress competitions. A reduced-price 'concert only' ticket is available for £19.90, allowing entry from 4pm for the evening concert and water show.
West Midlands Safari Park near Kidderminster hosts Character Week from February 14th to 22nd. Families can meet popular characters like PAW Patrol's Chase, Peppa Pig, and new additions for 2026, including Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse. Tickets include a free return visit, and daily free Meet & Greet sessions are scheduled.
Indoor and Interactive Experiences
For creative indoor fun, Merry Hill shopping centre offers Goo HQ, a free slime lab running from Monday, February 16th to Friday, February 20th. Children can participate in slime-making sessions with non-toxic ingredients, taking home their creations. The first session each day is SEN-friendly, though pre-bookings are sold out; limited walk-in spaces may be available.
Twycross Zoo continues its Lanterns of the Wild event until February 22nd. The evening trail features over 2,000 lanterns across immersive zones, including a special Gruffalo lantern experience. Visitors can explore displays depicting various habitats, from Polar Realms to Amazonian Jungles.
Statfold Country Park in Tamworth provides heritage railway rides, a miniature railway, and a woodland trail. From February 16th to 20th, Train Time UK offers interactive play sessions. The site also includes a soft play area, museum, cafe, and outdoor games.
Additional Family Attractions
Cadbury World in Bournville presents Freddo’s Circus, a live stage show included with entry tickets during half term. The performance features magic tricks and juggling, offering enhanced value compared to standard admission.
Warwick Castle hosts a Festival of Archery from February 14th to 22nd, with live shows, hands-on sessions, and access to attractions like the Zog Playland and Horrible Histories Maze.
For a unique historical outing, Shrewsbury Prison offers kids-go-free deals during half term, including free children's meals with adult purchases in the restaurant. The self-guided tours explore the Victorian prison's history.
Newly opened Flamingoo soft play centre in Erdington holds a K-Pop Demon Hunters Mini Disco on February 20th, featuring a dark glow party with music and performances.
Alton Towers Resort launches a Pirate Takeover event from February 14th to 22nd, with themed activities and access to CBeebies Land, the UK's only dedicated CBeebies area.
Families are advised to book ahead where necessary and check event timings to avoid disappointment, as many activities are expected to be popular during the school holiday period.
