J. Cole, The Rock Orchestra, Starsailor, magical theatre, Halloween adventures and exciting new exhibitions
Birmingham is heading into a fantastic weekend, with major arena concerts, live orchestral music, family theatre, Halloween activities and two exciting new exhibitions opening their doors.
With October half-term beginning, there’s even more reason to get out and explore. Whether you’re planning a big night out, entertaining the children or looking for something completely free, Friday 23 to Sunday 25 October offers plenty of possibilities.
Here’s The Birmingham Edit’s guide to the best of the weekend.
The Rock Orchestra brings an Arena of Fire to Birmingham
Friday night promises something spectacular as The Rock Orchestra arrives at Utilita Arena Birmingham.
Fourteen classical musicians transform legendary rock and metal anthems into an extraordinary orchestral experience, complete with pyrotechnics and fire performers.
Expect music associated with Metallica, AC/DC, Linkin Park, Guns N’ Roses and more.
When: Friday 23 October, 8pm. Doors 6.30pm.
The Rock Orchestra – tickets and information. HERE
Starsailor celebrate 25 years of Love Is Here
Indie favourites Starsailor head to Birmingham Town Hall on Friday, celebrating the 25th anniversary of their acclaimed debut album Love Is Here.
The band will be accompanied by a string ensemble, bringing fresh arrangements to songs that helped define early-2000s British indie music.
When: Friday 23 October, 7.30pm.
Tickets: £32–£49.50.
Starsailor at Birmingham Town Hall. HERE
J. Cole takes over Utilita Arena
One of hip-hop’s biggest names arrives in Birmingham on Sunday.
Grammy Award-winning J. Cole brings The Fall-Off Tour to Utilita Arena, marking his first UK headline shows since 2017.
With an enormous international following, this promises to be one of the weekend’s biggest musical events.
When: Sunday 25 October, 7pm. Doors 6pm.
J. Cole – official tickets and details. HERE
The Snowman returns home to Birmingham
There’s something particularly special happening at Birmingham Rep.
A brand-new production of The Snowman receives its world premiere, bringing Raymond Briggs’ much-loved story back to the city where its theatrical journey began.
Featuring beautiful puppetry, Howard Blake’s unforgettable music and the classic Walking in the Air, it’s a wonderful family treat.
When: Friday 23 October, 4pm; Saturday and Sunday, 11am and 3pm.
The Snowman – Birmingham Rep tickets. HERE
Halloween Spooktacular at Symphony Hall
The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra gets into the Halloween spirit with a family-friendly afternoon of wonderfully spooky music.
Expect themes from Ghostbusters and Jaws, alongside atmospheric classical favourites including Danse Macabre.
Fancy dress is encouraged, and there are free craft activities before the performance.
When: Sunday 25 October, 3pm.
Tickets: £12. Recommended for ages six and over.
CBSO Halloween Spooktacular. HERE
Discover Birmingham’s surrealist heritage at MAC
A major new exhibition opens at Midlands Arts Centre this weekend.
Emmy Bridgwater and Birmingham Surrealists celebrates the Birmingham-born artist through paintings, drawings, poetry and collages, alongside work by fellow surrealists.
The exhibition opens on Saturday, with a free opening celebration on Friday evening.
When: Opening party Friday 23 October, 6–8pm. Exhibition Saturday and Sunday, 11am–5pm.
Admission: Free.
Emmy Bridgwater exhibition | Friday opening celebration. Mac Birmingham
Step into Neverland at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Peter Pan, Captain Hook and Tinkerbell are taking over the Gas Hall.
Opening Friday, Neverland transforms the historic gallery into an immersive world inspired by J. M. Barrie’s classic story.
Expect pirate ships, magical forests, twinkling lights and familiar characters in a beautifully themed experience.
When: Opens Friday 23 October.
Tickets: Adults £12–£19; children aged 3–16 £8–£14, depending on session.
Neverland – official tickets. Birmingham Museums
Meet woodland animals at MAC
Looking for something free with younger children?
MAC hosts a Woodland Petting Zoo on Saturday, offering the chance to meet furry, feathery and prickly creatures.
There will also be complimentary face painting and opportunities to enjoy hot chocolate on the outdoor terrace.
When: Saturday 24 October, 11am–2pm.
Admission: Free, drop-in.
Woodland Petting Zoo at MAC. Mac Birmingham
Laugh along with Robert White
Comedian and Britain’s Got Talent favourite Robert White brings his brilliantly unconventional comedy to MAC on Friday.
Expect musical comedy, improvisation, audience interaction and plenty of unpredictable moments.
When: Friday 23 October.
Tickets: £19.95. Ages 18+.
Explore Joe Lycett’s extraordinary art
For another excellent free outing, visit Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery.
Local comedian and artist Joe Lycett continues his first major solo exhibition, EVERY THING MUST GO.
Featuring colourful paintings exploring nostalgia, loss and things that have disappeared, it’s funny, thought-provoking and unmistakably Birmingham.
When: Friday to Sunday, 10am–5pm.
Admission: Free.
Joe Lycett: EVERY THING MUST GO.
Browse Birmingham’s famous markets
Finally, spend Saturday exploring the Bull Ring Open Market on Edgbaston Street.
With approximately 130 stalls offering fresh produce, fabrics, household goods and seasonal bargains, it’s ideal for some relaxed shopping.
Combine your visit with lunch in the city centre and a wander around the Bullring.
When: Friday 9am–5pm; Saturday 9am–5.30pm.
Bull Ring Open Market information.
Make the most of Birmingham this weekend
From world-class live music and magical family theatre to brilliant free exhibitions and Halloween fun, Birmingham has something for practically everyone.
Whatever your plans, enjoy the city, discover somewhere new and make the most of everything Birmingham has to offer.
Keep visiting The Birmingham Edit for the latest entertainment, food, lifestyle and what’s-on inspiration across Birmingham and the West Midlands.
