January isn’t the easiest month of the year. It’s cold and wet and none of our friends ever want to do anything. The highs of December – from Christmas to waving goodbye to 2023 – often leave us feeling low in the first month of the year. Luckily for you, we’ve unearthed plenty of fun things to do in Birmingham to help kick those January blues. And rest assured, you’ll end January knowing that it was the best month of 2024 – so far!
1. Break Free from your January blues with a candlelight concert
January might be the coldest month, but bopping along to Queen will warm you up. On January 12, the legendary 1970s rock band will get the Candlelight treatment at St Paul’s Church. Get ready for a string quartet to play the likes of Under Pressure, We Are the Champions, Don’t Stop Me Now, Bohemian Rhapsody and more, all under the gentle glow of candlelight. To get your tickets head here.
2. Witness the most precious stained-glass windows in the world come to life
The stained-glass windows at Birmingham Cathedral were created in the 19th century by the Birmingham-born artist, Edward Burne-Jones. Depicting recognisable scenes from Jesus’ life, they’re often considered the most beautiful and precious stained glass windows in the world – they recently underwent restoration too!
Divine Beauty at Night, which debuted last January, will be back from January 4 to 6, 2024. Luxmuralis’ immersive light and sound show brings to life the cathedral’s emotive story of its stained-glass windows. Set inside the 300-year-old building, the kaleidoscopic show changes projects colourful patterns and breathtaking sections of the windows, accompanied by ethereal music, on the walls.
3. Head out on a Bear Grylls-style adventure
New year, new you, new adventures. January should be all about trying new things, so prepare for the ultimate adrenaline-pumping experience at this mind-blowing Bear Grylls-inspired hub of action. Delve into an assortment of electrifying activities – from high ropes to archery, climbing walls to indoor skydiving. Every thrill-seeker’s dream awaits at The Bear Grylls Adventure – inspired by the adventurer’s own exploits. To start your adventure head here.
4. Try out the new South African restaurant that’s relocated 6,000 miles to Stirchley
Riverine Rabbit has its roots in Cape Town but will become Strichley’s latest exciting foodie offering when it opens on January 5. Combining South African flavours with seasonal British produce, the restaurant also supports sustainable farming practices. The menu will be made up of 16 small plates, with a heavy focus on wild game, as well as seafood and a substantial vegetarian offering for plant-based guests. Meanwhile, on Mondays, an affordable Prix Fixe menu of four courses for £30 (with optional add-ons) will be available.
5. Escape the city and enjoy a winter staycation in the UK
In the years since the pandemic, UK staycations have become increasingly popular, almost trendy – proving the UK doesn’t have to be a total prison. Boasting varying landscapes and quaint little villages, our country is actually a mecca for culture, with tons of stunning sights and historical landmarks to uncover across the island. Check out our pick of the best winter staycations in the UK here. Or you could stay even closer to home in Birmingham’s The Grand Hotel, recently voted one of the best places to stay in Britain.
6. Take care of yourself at the new ‘wellbeing hub’ in Hall Green
January can be a tough month no matter who you are – taking care of your mental health should be your top priority. Thankfully, coming Blue Monday (January 15), a new wellbeing hub, grounded., is opening in Hall Green. Offering local community support, as well as access to workshops and therapies, this could be a lifeline during the toughest month.
7. Laugh yourself silly with this comedy festival
Throughout January, Birmingham welcomes back the comedy festival Belly Laughs. Taking over several of Birmingham’s favourite independent venues, these pop events will combine comedy and food, while raising money for good causes! Each ticket, ranging from £18 to £30, includes a laugh-a-minute night from a surprise comedian and a mouthwatering selection of food – from fried chicken burgers from Yardbirds to vegan delights from BA-HA at The Rainbow. £10 from each ticket will go to support SIFA Fireside.
8. Unleash your inner Scot for Burns Night
Scotland is a long, long way away from Birmingham. So Burns Night (January 25) – the celebration of the poet Robert Burns – is never going to be the biggest party. But there’s still plenty of fun to be had! Many will be gathering at home to tuck into haggis, shortbread and a wee dram of whisky or two, before belting out Auld Lang Syne and reading aloud the Scot’s poetry. But events at Browns (24 & 25), Moor Hall Hotel & Spa (20 to 25) and OIKOS Café (27) will bring Brum’s Scottish communities together.
9. Drive a real steam train around the Midlands
Leicestershire’s Great Central Railway is offering Drive a Loco experience days all year round, but (as we have said) January is always a great time to try something new! Fulfill those childhood dreams by driving a steam train. There are a variety of packages available, but all include a welcome briefing, a lunch, a guided tour of the Loco Works, a visit to Loughborough’s Signal Box, a presentation certificate and a 12-month membership of Friends of Great Central Mainline.
If you’d rather sit back and enjoy the journey the First-Class Dining Train invites guests to step on board and tuck into a delicious multi-course dinner, as you’re whisked through the picturesque countryside. Or book a themed experience, like the thrilling Murder Mystery evenings, indulgent Fish & Chip specials, afternoon tea and new for 2024, their Great Central Champagne Brunch.
10. Go vegan for the month
Veganuary rolls around once more, and it seemingly gathers speed every January. We say “if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em” so why not check out all the vegan delights that Birmingham has to offer to inspire your next dining out experience. From vegan junk food by BAHA and The Vegan Kitchen to Asian cuisine by Yakinori and Cafe Soya, there’s something for plant-based eaters to enjoy in Brum.
11. See the star-studded live tour of Strictly Come Dancing
Strictly Come Dancing is going on tour! Strictly legends Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and Craig Revel Horwood will take up their judging seats, while It Takes Two’s Janette Manrara is back as the tour host. The all-important celebrity contestants and their professional dancing partners will also be joining as it kicks off at Utilita Arena Birmingham. With five incredible shows taking place between January 19 and 21, audiences will also have the power to decide who wins the coveted Glitterball Trophy at the end!