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Cosy days, autumn colours, big events and half-term fun across the city.
October in Birmingham is one of the most atmospheric months of the year. The parks turn gold, cafés feel warmer, and the city fills with festivals, theatre, concerts and family-friendly Halloween events. Whether you’re planning a cosy weekend, a half-term day out or a night of live entertainment, here’s what’s happening across Birmingham this October.
🎭 Festivals & Culture
Birmingham Literature Festival
9–18 October 2025
One of the UK’s leading literary festivals returns with author talks, workshops, spoken word, panel discussions and family sessions. Expect big names, emerging writers and a brilliant creative atmosphere across the city.
Greek Festival Birmingham
2–4 October 2025
A lively weekend of Greek food, pastries, dancing and music – a great family-friendly cultural event with a warm community feel.
Solihull Food Festival
17–19 October 2025
Street food, chef demos, artisan stalls and live entertainment. A great choice for families and food lovers.
🎶 Concerts & Live Music
October is packed with arena shows and intimate gigs. Highlights include:
- Simply Red – Utilita Arena (4 October)
- The Kooks – Utilita Arena (10 October)
- Katy Perry – The Lifetimes Tour (11 October)
- Level 42 – Symphony Hall (3 October)
- Darius Rucker, Jake Owen & The Shires – Utilita Arena (2 October)
If you’re planning a night out, book early — October is one of the busiest months for live music.
🎤 Comedy & Theatre
2:22 A Ghost Story – The Alexandra
13–18 October 2025
The hit supernatural thriller arrives in Birmingham just in time for spooky season.
Closeup Comedy – Herbert’s Yard
15 October 2025
A brilliant monthly comedy night featuring well-known acts and a relaxed atmosphere.
Black Is the Color of My Voice – The Rep
15–16 October 2025
A powerful, critically acclaimed theatre piece inspired by the life of Nina Simone.
🐴 Major Events & Exhibitions
Horse of the Year Show – NEC
8–12 October 2025
One of the UK’s biggest equestrian events, with showjumping, displays, shopping and family entertainment.
Barber Vintage Festival
3–5 October 2025
A huge celebration of motorcycles, racing, displays and family activities.
🎃 Halloween & Half-Term Fun
Spider’s Tangle Trail – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
From 18 October
A gentle spooky-season trail for children aged 4–11, set among the autumn leaves.
Art Club: Spooktacular Halloween Crafts – Birmingham Museum
29 October
A fun half-term craft session for younger children.
Sandwell Valley Halloween Events
4, 11, 18, 25 October
Family-friendly “Little Monsters Trick or Treat”, plus the more grown-up “Circus of Curiosities” scare maze.
🍁 Autumn Walks & Cosy Spots
If you’re looking for something slower and more seasonal:
- Moseley Bog – magical in the autumn light
- Cannon Hill Park – lakeside colours and café stops
- Harborne Walkway – quiet, leafy and perfect for a Sunday stroll
- Sutton Park – huge open spaces and golden woodland
Pair a walk with a stop at one of Birmingham’s independent cafés for the full cosy-season feel.
🛍️ Local Makers & Autumn Shopping
October is a great month for browsing:
- Jewellery Quarter studios
- Autumn craft markets
- Vintage shops in Digbeth
- Independent homeware and lifestyle stores
Perfect for early festive finds or a slow weekend browse.
⭐ Planning Your October in Birmingham
Whether you’re after a big night out, a family day trip or a quiet autumn walk, October is one of the richest months for events in the city. Save this guide, share it, and check back as more events are added throughout the month.