Thousands of people are expected to attend the major free events taking place in Victoria Square, Bullring, Birmingham Hippodrome, Southside, Millennium Point and across the city in 2026. From live music and food to workshops and activities, there is something for everyone.
Free Festivals in Birmingham 2026
Birmingham offers a wide range of festivals throughout spring, summer, and autumn. However, booking tickets for the whole family can be expensive. That is why we have compiled a list of free festivals happening in the city in 2026. Enjoy live music, food, workshops, talks, tours, and activities without spending a penny.
Some events feature huge installations, while others invite audience participation. Most encourage you to try something new. Be sure to check timings and book free tickets in advance where necessary to avoid disappointment. This guide will be updated as more events are announced.
Birmingham Pride
May 23 - 24
Birmingham Pride is one of the UK's most important LGBTQ+ festivals, packed with colour, music, and fun. The parade is free to enjoy and attracts more than 40,000 people to the city. Since the first Pride event in 1997, the festival has grown from its base in the heart of Birmingham's LGBTQ+ village. Most events are ticketed, so booking in advance is recommended. The parade starts in Victoria Square at 11am on Saturday, May 23. Find more information on the Birmingham Pride website.
Birmingham Heritage Festival
June 5
This family fun day celebrates Birmingham's rich culture and history. Expect live music, food, and activities for all ages at Millennium Point. Explore the city's heritage in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Find out more and book free tickets via Eventbrite.
Colmore Food Festival
July 3 - 4
More than 75,000 people attended last year's Colmore Food Festival, which formed part of Birmingham's Super Weekend when Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath played their final gig in the city. Now in its 13th year, the festival promises a packed programme of events and tasty treats. Taking place in Victoria Square, it showcases local traders and produce and is free to enter. Find more information on the Colmore Life website.
The Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival
July 18 - 27
This free festival has been held in Birmingham for over four decades, running since 1985. It is England's longest established jazz and blues festival and one of Europe's biggest free jazz parties. In 2025, 179 performances across 101 venues welcomed over 64,000 music lovers, with 166 events completely free. In addition to performances, there are workshops, talks, exhibitions, and masterclasses over 10 days. Shows take place in bars, clubs, hotels, shopping centres, libraries, stations, parks, and on street corners and squares. Listen for music coming from canal boats, buses, and trains. Find more information on the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival website.
Birmingham Weekender
August 29 - 31
Birmingham Weekender takes over the city with free performances, installations, and pop-up experiences over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Produced by Birmingham Hippodrome in partnership with Bullring, it spreads across the city's squares, streets, and shopping centres. A popular event with families, every year brings new commissions from regional, national, and international companies. Find more information on the Birmingham Hippodrome website.
Birmingham Heritage Week
September 11 - 20
Birmingham Heritage Week runs for 10 days and is packed with brilliant things to do, most of which are free. The festival features over 100 open days, guided tours, walks, and talks for families at museums, historic houses, and community centres. It celebrates the city's wonderful history and heritage. Tickets are free but must be booked in advance when the website goes live in August. Find more information on the Birmingham Heritage Week website.
Birmingham Film Festival
November 6 - 15
This 10-day festival celebrates films from around the world. Over 5,500 guests are expected, making it the largest film and media event in the West Midlands. There is a mix of independent, professional, and international films shown in a 350-seat auditorium at Millennium Point. Screenings are free to attend, and there are workshops and seminars. The best films are nominated for over 30 awards, including categories for young filmmakers, local filmmakers, and international filmmakers. Winners receive their awards at the festival's Gala Awards Dinner. Find more information on the Birmingham Film Festival website.
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