January was a difficult month, but our summer calendars are filling up (we’re so excited to see the sun again!) and it’s starting to feel like 2023. But don’t skip ahead too soon, as it doesn’t have to be doom and gloom in February or all about love – not that it’s a bad thing, by any means. It might the shortest month, but there’s more than a fair share of things to do this February in Birmingham with plenty of events and activities for all to enjoy. Get February off to a flying start with some of these fun-filled things to do this month.
1. Grab your coat and head out for a walk
It might be cold out but wrap up warm and get yourself outside for a bit of fresh air. You’ll be thankful for it later on and it’s an excuse to have another hot brew when you get in. Even if you stretch your legs for around 20 minutes, it’ll make a change from the same old scenery. The city has a range of parks, gardens and woodland areas to stroll around and they say being surrounded by nature allows us to switch off and be more grounded, which is just the trick most of us need right now. Check out these walks near Birmingham.
2. Indulge in the work’s of Hans Zimmer at Birmingham Botanical Gardens
All cinema lovers will undoubtedly know the name, Hans Zimmer. An icon of the movies, his scores have defined movie soundtracks for decades from Rain Man to Pirates of the Caribbean, Dune to Kung Fu Panda and countless more since his 1977 debut. On February 16, a candlelight concert will celebrate his illustrious career at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Treat yourself to a special night of live music by Candlelight. Get your tickets here.
3. Enjoy a ‘posh’ doner kebab at any time of the day
It’s late, you’re heading home from the pub and hungry. What are you ordering? For most of us, it’s the indulgent döner kebab. But at most times, the Turkish-German sandwich doesn’t get enough respect. Michelin-star chef Brad Carter is changing that One Star Döner Bar in Birmingham. Launching this February at the Hare & Hounds is going to get many ‘babs’ into the hands of Brummies.
4. Spruce up your space with a little decorating
Why not start the spring cleaning early? With us all spending more time at home, why not transform your space into a cosy area free of clutter? This doesn’t mean you need to give the walls a lick of paint but instead organise items in terms of priority and hoover up those crumbs on the carpet. You could potentially hang some artwork up to give the place a pop of colour or even invest in some gorgeous candles or lovely houseplants which help to improve the smell and air quality of your home.
5. Fall in love with lots of doggos at this Pup-Up Cafe
If this photo hasn’t made your heart swell with cuteness, this might not be the event for you. Pup-Up Cafe is back in Birmingham this February at The Lost & Found. Advertised as a Valentine’s Day special, but taking place February 26, it’ll be the perfect puppy hangout this month. With free puppiccinos, unlimited dog treats and an on-site photographer capturing every second of cuteness, we can’t think of a more romantic way to spend the day with your furry baby, can you? To learn more head here.
6. Spend the day exploring Stirchley
One of Birmingham’s coolest neighbourhoods, everyone wants to be seen in Stirchley these days. The area is currently flourishing thanks to its many independent breweries, brilliant bakeries and some of Birmingham’s best food and drink destinations. There’s a true sense of ‘community’ in Stirchley no matter where you end up. Making it easy to understand the current appeal of the place. Check out our list of some of the best things to do in Stirchley.
7. Have a laugh at Leicester Comedy Festival
Times aren’t exactly easy this time of year; the weather is bleak and money is tight. There’s not a whole lot to smile about. But Leicester Comedy Festival is going to leave bursting with laughter this February. A short drive from Birmingham, hundreds of comedians will be heading to the two-week festival from February 8 to 26. The includes the likes of Eshaan Akbar, Jo Brand, Sikisa, Stewart Lee, Rosie Jones, Michael Rosen, Seann Walsh, Milton Jones, Nish Kumar, Fern Brady, Sophie Duker and many more. The UK Kids’ Comedy Festival, the country’s only comedy festival for children, will also provide shows for all the family to enjoy. To learn more head here.
8. Grab a second slice at Rudy’s Pizzeria
One of Birmingham’s best pizzerias, Rudy’s will open a second location on February 6. It’s heading to Brindleyplace and doubling our chances of devouring one of their Neapolitan pizzas. Some of our favourites include the Calabrese pizza topped with spicy ‘nduja sausage and their white pizza, with roast porchetta, sage roasted potatoes, smoked mozzarella, and caramelised onions. But Rudy’s always has a surprise or two up its sleeve!
9. Get on your bike and cycle around these nearby parks
If you’re fed up with walking and want to get about a bit further in less time then hop on a bike and get pedalling. The city has some amazing cycle routes, including bicycle lanes in local parks and gardens, which allow you to see some beautiful sights even in the February frost. You can find some of Birmingham’s lakes and reservoirs to cycle around here.
10. Rock out at Birmingham’s newest and most brutal metal bar
The Devil’s Dog looks to reignite heavy metal links when it opens on February 24 with a free gig for all locals to attend. Aiming to become Birmingham’s most ‘brutal’ metal bar, expect the heaviest touring bands and the best Birmingham talent to play here going forward. The 300-capacity venue will also host club nights with DJs, while a menu made up of burgers, wings and beer will make it Birmingham’s heaviest hangout spot.
11. Let out your inner child at Roxy Ball Room
Ping pong, bowling, pool tables, food and beer. What more in the world could you want? Roxy Ball Room will double the fun this month when it launches a second location in Birmingham. Expect all the excitement of the current Digbeth site, only bigger and better. This means plenty of competitive games such as full-size American pool tables and ping-pong on Olympic standard tables. Plus, beer-pong, basketball, shuffleboard, ten-pin bowling and more. It’s the easiest way to have fun in Birmingham this February and embrace your big kid energy.
12. Head to the best pub in the country, just bring a designated driver
You might think your local pub is the best, but only Tamworth residents can say it. The Tamworth Tap recently won CAMRA’s National Pub of the Year award and we’ll be driving over this February to check it out. Situated in an old Tudor building, it’s a fantastic pub for a pint of real ale and soaking in the stunning views of Tamworth’s historic Norman castle. It’s worth checking out what’s on before driving over, however. As the pub hosts regular events, such as beer tastings, live local music and screenings of cult films that you won’t want to miss.
13. Enjoy an immersive dining experience at Grace & Savour
Built into the very walls of Hampton Manor’s Victorian Walled Garden, Grace & Savour is another winning venue near Birmingham. The Solihull restaurant was crowned SqaureMeal’s best restaurant in the UK for 2023. If you’re after a special foodie occasion this month, the one at Grace & Savour is pretty unique as it boasts a cookery school and luxury accommodation. The immersive dining experience offers a fifteen-course tasting menu from their open kitchen and allows guests to tour the garden before tucking into the food – followed by an overnight stay and then experience the restaurant’s cookery school.
14. Or eat cheaper at these other Birmingham food spots
Not everyone can be eating out at fancy restaurants all the time. We know we certainly can’t. That’s why we put together this list of the best cheap eats in Birmingham. Whether you’re in the mood for bao buns or an English breakfast, pakora or a pizza, Birmingham is full of cracking deals to be had. Meaning you can still eat out without breaking the bank. See the full list here.
15. Embrace Valentine’s Day wherever you are in Birmingham
I think we’ve proven that not everything in February is about Valentine’s Day. But there’s no denying that love is in the area this month. Luckily, you’re in Birmingham – one of the most romantic cities in the UK, so says we. If you’re on the search for date ideas, we’ve got you covered here. Or if you’re looking for somewhere to express your love or maybe propose, there are some great places to kiss in Birmingham too. All that’s important on Valentine’s day, however, is that you are with the one you love.