11 Events in Birmingham and the West Midlands You Can’t Miss This May

May is nearly upon us, and Birmingham is buzzing with events, promising a month of fun for locals and visitors alike.

From music festivals and performances to literary gatherings and world-class sport, there's something for everyone to enjoy in our vibrant region. We’re even being treated to two bank holidays and a half term in May, so get ready for your calendar to be jam-packed! 

Let's dive into our top picks of things to do this May in Birmingham and the West Midlands.
 

Sidewinder Festival - The NEC, May 4
 

Get ready to dance through the day and night at Sidewinder Festival 2024, hosted at the NEC in their fabulous outdoor event space! Featuring the biggest names in UK Garage, Bassline, House, and Hiphop, the festival is the perfect way to set the tone for a fun-filled summer.
 

The Stratford Literary Festival - 2-7 May
 

Bookworms are in for a treat this May as the Stratford Literary Festival returns to inspire audiences from near and far. Immerse yourself in a world of words with captivating author talks from literary legends, thought-provoking workshops, fascinating panel discussions, and so much more!

Whether you're a die-hard bibliophile or simply curious about the literary scene, this festival has something for everyone.
 

Elbow - Resorts World Arena,  May 10
 

Get ready for an evening of musical magic as Elbow takes the stage at Birmingham’s Resorts World Arena! Known for their heartfelt lyrics and captivating performances, this iconic British band promises to deliver an unforgettable concert experience for fans old and new, performing smash hits including Grounds for Divorce and One Day Like This.
 

England v Pakistan Women’s IT20 - Edgbaston Stadium, 11 May - and England v Pakistan Men’s IT20 - Edgbaston Stadium, 25 May
 

In May, Edgbaston will witness an electrifying clash between the men's and women's teams of England and Pakistan, featuring renowned figures in international cricket alongside emerging talents!

This highly anticipated IT20 encounter marks the inaugural showdown between England and Pakistan at Edgbaston, promising a thrilling match that is sure to go down in history.
 

 

Matilda in Concert - The NEC, 12 May
 

Experience the magic of Roald Dahl's classic tale as the film Matilda comes to life in a spellbinding concert at the NEC! This unique film-with-orchestra experience will delight audiences of all ages, taking place under the grand Big Top tent to add even more magic to the occasion.
 

Sister Act the Musical - Birmingham Hippodrome, 13-18 May
 

Get ready to raise the roof with singing and laughter as Sister Act the Musical takes centre stage at the Birmingham Hippodrome! Follow the hilarious escapades of Deloris Van Cartier as she transforms a struggling convent choir into a sensational musical act.
 

Flatpack Film Festival - 10-19 May
 

The annual Flatpack Film Festival is back and better than ever, with an eclectic range of boundary-pushing performances, screenings, walks and installations produced by wildly talented individuals from all over the globe!

From indie gems to cinematic classics, this festival showcases the best in contemporary filmmaking through screenings, workshops, and special events.

Kicking off on May 10th at the Custard Factory in Digbeth, expect surprises, laughs, and a true celebration of all that film has to offer.
 

 

Birmingham Pride - 25-26 May
 

Join the vibrant celebration of love, diversity, and equality at the iconic Birmingham Pride! With colourful parades, live performances, and an electric atmosphere, you won’t want to miss out on the party this May. The line-up includes the amazing Sophie Ellis-Baxter, Gok Wan, Tia Kofi, and so many more!

Whilst you’re in the city for Birmingham Pride, make sure you explore everything Birmingham has to offer from unique activities and diverse food, to world-class shopping and fascinating history. 
 

Brick Fest Live - The NEC, 25-27 May
 

Calling all LEGO®️ lovers! Brick Fest Live comes to the NEC at the end of May,  so get ready to immerse yourself in a brick-tastic world at the largest hands-on LEGO®️ event of its kind.

From massive sculptures and rare collectables to live demos and building zones, Brick Fest Live promises a day filled with creativity and imagination. With over a million bricks on display and ready for play, you’ll never want to leave!
 

Comedy at the Castle - Warwick Castle, 24th, 25th, 26th May
 

Looking for a laugh? The Midlands' biggest open-air comedy festival returns to the iconic Warwick Castle in May! Taking place inside the extraordinary castle grounds, the 3-day festival in collaboration with Close Up Comedy will welcome world-class comedy once again along with thousands of visitors.

What’s more, Digbeth Dining Club will be fuelling the fun with award-winning street food and bars, making it a recipe for an incredible evening!

And the foodie fun doesn’t stop there this May as Digbeth Dining Club’s Summer Tour ‘24 is popping up at various locations throughout the month of May, including at the Waterfront Merry Hill, Lichfield, Bearwood, Tamworth, and Sutton Coldfield.
 

 

Dirty Dancing Bottomless Brunch - Millennium Point, 25 May

Transport yourself back to the summer of 1963 with a Dirty Dancing Bottomless Brunch at Millennium Point!

Enjoy delicious food and unlimited drinks as you relive the iconic moments of this beloved 80s classic surrounded by amazing vibes. It might even have you attempting *that* dance move with your pals!

There’s not a dull moment this month in the region! Check out more things to do in Birmingham and the West Midlands during May.