February half term is just around the corner, and families in Birmingham and the surrounding areas are gearing up for a fantastic week of fun-filled activities. Whether you’re looking to explore indoors or enjoy cultural events, there are plenty of options to keep both kids and adults entertained—even if the weather isn’t ideal.
This year, attractions and museums throughout the West Midlands are offering special events, many with free admission or discounts, so it’s a great chance to experience something new without breaking the bank. Just be sure to book ahead where required and double-check event times to avoid any last-minute disappointment.
City Centre Highlights:
The Birmingham Light Festival returns from Thursday, February 12 to Sunday, February 15, illuminating the city with breathtaking light displays. Wander through St Paul’s Square to see twinkling fields of fireflies, catch mesmerizing fire performances at the Bullring, or admire a dazzling giant disco ball floating along the canals—all completely free to the public.
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At Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery in Chamberlain Square, families can participate in the free “Art School… in a Trail!” spotter trail, running from February 14 to 22. Designed for children aged nine and above, the trail presents creative missions that encourage guests to engage with contemporary art in novel and fun ways. Completion of the activity sheet earns participants an exclusive Art School sticker, along with a chance to enter a drawing competition.
From February 17 to 22, Birmingham’s Southside will host vibrant Chinese New Year festivities in Hippodrome Square. The celebrations feature traditional lion dances, a procession through Chinatown, live music, dance, theatre performances, market stalls, and family activities, all free to attend.
Exciting Events in Solihull, Tamworth, and Beyond:
Solihull’s Touchwood shopping centre will celebrate the Year of the Horse on February 21 with a lively community event including mahjong workshops, face painting, calligraphy, and a lively lion dance parade, all supported by the local Hong Kong community.
In Tamworth, Drayton Manor Park is set to dazzle with a colourful K-Pop themed entertainment extravaganza from February 14 to 23. Visitors can enjoy live K-Pop performances, interactive dance workshops, fancy dress competitions, and a spectacular end-of-day concert and water show on the lake. Special reduced-price entry is available for those attending only the concert.
Families visiting Merry Hill can experience Goo HQ between February 16 and 20, an interactive and completely free slime lab event led by the expert “Goo-ologist” Professor Goo. Suitable for children of all ages, kids can make and take home their own slime. Note that sessions require pre-booking, but walk-in spots may be available.
At West Midlands Safari Park near Kidderminster, “Character Week” from February 14 to 22 offers meet-and-greet sessions with beloved characters like PAW Patrol’s Chase, Peppa Pig, Bluey, Paddington, Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse, and SpongeBob SquarePants. Plus, get up close with adorable baby animals including a giraffe and tiger cubs.
Other Noteworthy Activities:
Twycross Zoo hosts the enchanting “Lanterns in the Wild” trail until February 22, featuring more than 2,000 lanterns across 10 immersive zones, including habitats like tropical reefs and polar realms, plus a unique Gruffalo lantern experience for younger visitors.
At Statfold Country Park in Tamworth, families can enjoy heritage and miniature train rides, a woodland trail, and the indoor soft play area Toby’s Barn: Play & Climb. Interactive play sessions by Train Time UK will also run February 16-20.
For a lively party atmosphere, Flamingoo soft play centre in Erdington is holding a K-Pop Demon Hunters Mini Disco on February 20, featuring music, lights, live performances, and fancy dress.
Elsewhere, Alton Towers invites guests to join its Pirate Takeover from February 14 to 22, complete with themed performances and access to CBeebies Land. Cadbury World in Bournville features the energetic Freddo’s Circus show full of jokes and magic, included with park entry.
Warwick Castle offers a Festival of Archery over half term with live shows, hands-on sessions, quizzes, and a grand shoot-off from February 14 to 22. Explore interactive areas such as Zog Playland and Horrible Histories Maze to round out your day.
For something historic, Shrewsbury Prison, one of the largest surviving Victorian prisons in Britain, is offering kids free entry during half term alongside a free kids’ meal with paying adults at the onsite restaurant—a rare opportunity to explore the fascinating and eerie past of this iconic site.
With so many diverse events and activities happening across Birmingham and its neighbouring towns, February half term promises a memorable break for the whole family. Don’t forget to plan ahead, book where necessary, and embrace all the exciting experiences this season has to offer.