You might still feel like hibernating somewhat due to the wet weather, but there are plenty of reasons to poke your head out for this March. From annual holidays, like St Patrick’s Day and Mothering Sunday, to unique experiences like a giant, floating sun and a brand-new food hall, the fun doesn’t stop with these amazing things to do this March in Birmingham.
Wander through a huge tulip field near Birmingham
Showcasing over 750,000 vibrant tulips across over 100 varieties, Tulleys Tulip Garden opens at Hatton Country World near Birmingham this March. And, so that the field is always at its most beautiful, early, mid and late-flowering tulips ensure waves of colour throughout the season, and that no two visits are ever the same.
You will be free to wander these vibrant fields, following scenic pathways, discover floral installations and enjoy Instagram-ready photo spots (like the charming windmill). If that wasn’t enough, enjoy Dutch-inspired street food, roaming live musicians, or take a break at the Tulip Coffee House.
Prepare to see your favourite songs performed in a setting like no other, in a way you’ve never seen before. I, of course, could only be talking about Candlelight concerts—with classical tributes to Linkin Park, Queen, Fleetwood Mac and more. All in Birmingham’s gorgeous churches. All performed by a string quartet. All under the gentle glow of hundreds of flickering candles.
Start directly into this replica sun
The Exchange’s historic Banking Hall becomes the stunning setting for Luke Jerram’s one-of-a-kind ‘Helios’ sculpture this March. The 1:200 million scale of our closest star features high-resolution NASA imagery that reveals the astonishing details of the solar surface—including sunspots, spicules and filaments—as well as a surround sound composition, utilising NASA recordings of the sun, accompanies the piece. ‘Helios’ will then move long-term to the Edgbaston campus, where it will continue to be free and accessible for all.
The Jazz Room dives into New Orleans’ rich jazz heritage without leaving Birmingham. With different programmes offered every month, expect soulful voices, smooth sax riffs and improvisations that blend effortlessly with timeless classics. Exuberant horns might lead with ‘Sing Sing Sing’ one minute, while smooth vocals bring ‘Never Too Much’ another. Either way, expect a jazz-fuelled, but genre-spanning musical ride.
Join the ‘Glastonbury of Gaming’
The UK is one of Europe’s fastest-growing esports markets. So, where better to host the world’s biggest gaming and esports festival, dubbed the ‘Glastonbury of gaming’, DreamHack? Across three days, expect esports tournaments, cosplay, live music, creators, tabletop games, and so much more, all in one vibrant, community-driven space—including the prestigious esports tournament, ESL One, showcasing 16 of the world’s best Dota 2 teams.
Support independent, women-owned businesses
We should definitely be doing more of this all-year-round, if we can, but Thursday, March 5, marks International Women’s Day, so why not show some love and solidarity by purchasing items from businesses run by women? This special International Women’s Day Artisan Market (12pm to 6pm) will shine a light on female-led founders, creators and makers, offering visitors the chance to discover independent brands, handmade goods, and locally crafted products.
Celebrate St Patrick’s Day
Sadly, there’s no St Patrick’s Day parade in Birmingham again this year. But that won’t stop Digbeth’s Irish community from celebrating. In total, The Old Crown has 13 events in March centred around Irish celebrities, traditions, food and entertainment—including a ‘Parade Day’ party and a themed Catchphrase quiz hosted by Roy Walker.
And that’s not all. Popular ‘County Digbeth’ venue, Nortons, has announced its annual St Patrick’s programme, too, with a St Patrick’s Sunday special headlined by Irish folk rockers All Folk’d Up. Historian Professor Carl Chinn will host unique Irish-Birmingham talks, and the St Patrick’s Green Tie Ball brings Irish businesses together.
Catch the feel-good rom-com ‘Legally Blonde’ musical
Based on the smash-hit 2001 film starring Reese Witherspoon, ‘Legally Blonde The Musical’ is coming to Birmingham’s The Alexandra. This ultimate feel-good rom-com follows Elle Woods on her transformation from ‘It Girl’ fashionista to legal ace at Harvard Law School, all in the name of love.
Eat at the Birmingham night market during Ramadan
A family-friendly night market looks to bring communities together on Coventry Road. If you’re looking for an evening plan this month, Ramadan Streets is a five-day immersive cultural night market at Birmingham City Football Club grounds, running daily from dusk until 11:30pm. The open-air event features food trucks, artisan vendors, a reflective art zone and family-friendly activities.
Forget tradition. In a bold, new ballet that’s redefining classical dance, watch dancers in illuminated costumes breath new life into Cinderella. Whether it’s the hilarious antics of the evil stepsisters, the opulence of the Royal Ball, or the heartwarming romance of the Prince, Ballet of Light transforms this beloved fairytale through dance, colour, and light.
See the TV sensation ‘Bluey’ on a real-life stage
Get ready for a delightful experience as ‘Bluey’s Big Play’ returns to the stage at The Alexandra in Birmingham. Following its previous success, this live show features original voices and enchanting puppetry, delivering an exciting story crafted by Bluey creator Joe Brumm. Families can anticipate more fun, music, and laughter together as the beloved characters charm audiences across the UK again.
Get busy reading for World Book Day
The global celebration of reading and books, World Book Day is taking place on Thursday, March 5. You could celebrate by buying a new book or visiting these literary spots in Birmingham. But why not use this month to visit the cute ‘book town’ Hay-on-Wye?
Treat your mum to an afternoon tea this Mother’s Day
Of all the events on this list, this is the one you really don’t want to forget for heaven’s sake! Put Sunday, March 15 in your diary because it’s Mother’s Day. It’s your chance to treat your dear mum or mother figure to something special – you can’t go wrong with an afternoon tea, so why not book one this March or order one online to come straight to her door?
Love courtroom dramas? Turn off the TV and step into your very own high-stakes trial. It could forever change the future of the justice system. After a self-driving car causes a fatal accident, it’s up to you to decide who’s responsible. Throughout the live theatre courtroom drama, The Jury Experience has you answer complex questions, analyse witness testimonies and forensic evidence, and cast the vote that determines the fate of the accused.
Pet all the cutest (and most talented) pups in town
The world’s greatest dog show takes over the NEC in Birmingham for Crufts 2026. The four-day action-packed schedule celebrating our four-legged friends is expected to more than 20,000 dogs. Showcasing 200 diverse breeds in fun competitions like agility, heelwork music, flyball and obedience, and you can still purchase tickets to this year’s event here. Or you can just stay at home and watch it on Channel 4…
Tuck into a brand-new food hall at The Custard Factory
In a nod to The Custard Factory‘s original owner, a new food hall is set to open in the hippest spot in Birmingham this month. Alfred Works will span over 17,500 sq. ft of indoor space with 15 kitchens, a large outdoor courtyard, social gaming, family-friendly areas and a huge additional events space across the River Rea.
Thuck into viral birria ramen to authentic Palestinian flavours, as well as Ethiopian stews, Greek gyros, Italian classics and so much more. Alfred Works will also be home to Blend Culinary Foundation Kitchen, which tackles food poverty and supports access to food education, as well as a leading independent retailer, The Cream Store.
