Dancing, street food and music this bank holiday

The August bank holiday is almost here, and the West Midlands is preparing for a weekend packed with exciting events and activities. Whether you want to spend time with your family, enjoy music and dancing, or try delicious street food, there are plenty of options to choose from. Across Birmingham, Coventry, Warwickshire, Hereford, Worcester, Shropshire, Stoke, and Staffordshire, communities are coming together to celebrate with festivals, markets, carnivals, and more.

In Birmingham, the city centre will host the Birmingham Weekender, a free festival running from Saturday through Monday. Visitors can expect to see aerial dancers, street performers, pop-up art installations, and family-friendly carnival events. The Birmingham Hippodrome is helping organize these festivities, promising a lively atmosphere for everyone. Kings Heath will be home to the Páirc Summer Series, which is described as the biggest celebration of Irish music and culture in the region. The event takes place at the Irish Centre and features live performances and cultural activities. For those who love African music and food, Afrobeats N Brunch will be held at Sector 57 in Digbeth on Saturday, offering a vibrant mix of music and cuisine. Wolverhampton Art Gallery continues to showcase the UK's largest hobby exhibition, where visitors can see objects created, modified, or collected by hobbyists from all over the country.

Warwick is hosting the BIG Summer Market on bank holiday Monday, with arts, crafts, local produce, street food, and entertainment in Market Square. The town's Horticultural and Allotment Show runs from Saturday to Sunday, featuring craft stalls, a tea tent, and a celebration of flowers and baking. In Hereford and Worcester, the Ledbury Carnival returns on Sunday, offering fairground rides, live bands, stalls, dance displays, children's entertainment, and a colorful carnival procession. Boat enthusiasts can head to the Ross Regatta in Ross-on-Wye, where boat races, live music, and duck racing will take place. After the holiday, St Owen's Cross will host an outdoor summer fiesta at The New Inn, with live music, outdoor dining, and cocktails. The Bewdley Beer Festival runs from Thursday to Sunday, offering a wide selection of beers and entertainment at St George's Hall.

Shropshire's Shrewsbury Folk Festival is a highlight for music lovers, running from Friday to Monday and featuring folk, Americana, and world music across several stages. The festival is family and dog-friendly, making it a great outing for everyone. The Shrewsbury Steam Rally at Onslow Park showcases over 1,200 exhibits, including steam engines, vintage tractors, classic cars, craft stalls, and fairground rides. The White Horse Pulverbatch Beer Festival offers real ales, ciders, live music, and food. Balloon fans can enjoy the Telford Balloon Fiesta at Telford Town Park, with family activities, live music, and plenty of balloons. In Staffordshire, the Single Parent Festival at Sherratts Wood provides a space for children to play and parents to meet new friends. The Penkridge Open Air Festival features live performances from acts like the Vengaboys, Boney M, and The Weather Girls.

With so many events happening across the West Midlands, there is something for everyone to enjoy this August bank holiday. Whether you are interested in music, dancing, food, or simply spending time with loved ones, the region offers a wide variety of activities to make the holiday memorable. Check local websites for more information and get ready to join in the celebrations.