Don’t worry, I won’t dust off the old school, hip-hop slang, but I will be dropping knowledge about B-SIDE Hip-Hop Festival. Celebrating its 10th anniversary (May 30 – June 1), the vibrant festival is returning to Birmingham Hippodrome, Southside and Bullring & Grand Central—and showcasing the best in hip-hop talent from breakin’ to graffiti, DJing and MCing.
Across its three days, B-SIDE Hip-Hop Festival promises to be the ultimate celebration of hip-hop culture, art and community—featuring dance battles, rap showcases, workshops, exhibitions and immersive performances. And, produced by Birmingham Hippodrome with Break Mission, Afroflux, Queer-Side, GraffitiArtist.com and Soul City Arts, it’s (mostly) all FREE!
Matt Evans, Head of Festivals & Sites at Birmingham Hippodrome, said: “We are incredibly excited to celebrate ten years of B-SIDE Hip-Hop Festival. Over the last decade, the festival has championed talent from across the pillars of Hip-Hop, whilst giving, fans and local communities a platform to celebrate everything that Hip-Hop represents.
“This year’s programme includes favourites from the festival’s history, plus some exciting new additions. From iconic battles and bold exhibitions to street sports and workshops, there will be something for everyone. It’s going to be truly unforgettable, and we can’t wait!”
What’s on at B-SIDE Hip-Hop Festival?
The free festival kicks off on Friday, May 30, with Birmingham Hippodrome’s Young Community Takeover event in the daytime. Then, in the evening, check out the festival dance workshops, which you do have to pay for, and include lessons on popping, breakin’, waacking, litefeet and more.
The festival then expands onto the streets of Southside on Saturday, May 31, with dance competition qualifiers, performances, a block party with resident DJs, Fluxcon mini convention, pop-up skateboarding, roller skating and a community basketball slam.
Break Mission Worldwide and Queer-Side Dance Championships culminate on Sunday, June 1, with the finals taking place in Bullring & Grand Central, featuring incredible talent from the UK and beyond, alongside high-energy concrete battles. To learn more about the B-SIDE Hip-Hop Festival 2025 head here.