The school holidays can be a challenge when it comes to keeping the whole family entertained — especially without breaking the bank. While theme parks and zoos are fun, their costs can quickly add up. Thankfully, Birmingham and its surroundings offer a fantastic array of free events and activities this summer, perfect for all ages.
First up is Birmingham Beach, located on Digbeth High Street from July 17 to August 31. This sandy pop-up beach features deckchairs, fairground rides, and treats like candy floss and doughnuts — all free to enter. It’s easily accessible on foot from New Street and Moor Street stations with available parking nearby.
For an art-filled adventure, follow the Snoopy in Birmingham Trail running until September 1. Explore 12 colorful sculptures of Charles M. Schulz’s iconic beagle, scattered around the city and designed by local artists. Free maps are available to help you track them down, and donations support the Midlands-based Acorns Children’s Hospice.
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At NEC Lakeside, enjoy an outdoor cinema experience with a summer film lineup, a children’s play area, picnic spots, and an activity trail — all free this season.
The Birmingham Weekender festival on August 29-31 transforms the city streets near the Hippodrome and Bullring with free performances, installations, and pop-up events — a vibrant way to celebrate the Bank Holiday weekend.
Solihull’s Touchwood Shopping Centre brings the beach to town with its Touchwood Summer Sessions from July 18 to August 31. Along with the sandy area, enjoy free K-Pop parties, bubble shows, drama sessions, BBQs, and themed arts and crafts throughout the holidays.
Two notable Midlands hot air balloon festivals are also free to attend this summer: Oswestry Hot Air Balloon Festival on August 22-23, and the Telford Hot Air Balloon Fiesta from August 28-30, both offering spectacular daytime displays and evening illuminations.
West Bromwich’s New Square Shopping Centre returns with its popular manmade beach from July 20 to August 30, featuring free crazy golf and Toy Story-themed activities, plus occasional face painting and special events.
Northfield Beach, set at Victoria Common from July 23-26, promises family fun with arts and crafts, live music, performances, and various activities — all free to attend and surrounded by playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.
For a day trip close to nature, Rutland Water Park in Leicestershire offers a Blue Flag lakeside beach and plenty of opportunities for swimming, paddling, picnics, and barbecues. Similarly, the Cotswold Country Park and Beach near Cirencester is the UK’s largest inland beach with swimming, pedalos, and minigolf.
Jazz lovers can attend the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival from July 24 to August 2 at city venues. It’s England’s longest running jazz and blues festival and one of Europe’s biggest free jazz celebrations.
Families can also splash around at new and existing water play areas like Saltwich Splash in Droitwich, Willenhall Memorial Park Splash Pad, Brinton Park Splash Pad in Kidderminster, and the newly reopened Riverside Paddling Pool in Stourport-on-Severn.
Garden centres across the Midlands offer free play areas and petting experiences, and nearby adventure playgrounds provide exciting outdoor fun. Check out local hidden gems like the picturesque protected park in Halesowen, often likened to a mini Blenheim.
Finally, the Bring it on Brum! holiday activity programme gives children and young people access to fun, free holiday clubs throughout Birmingham.
With so many free options available, this summer is packed with opportunities for families to make lasting memories without spending a fortune.