Freedom is on the horizon this month.
The wait has been long and the weather ever-changing (but that’s Birmingham, right?) but this month could be our month. Finally! July brings hope and a possible return that’s closer to normality as the remaining restrictions are lifted. This month, we will see the return of some fun events in the city as well as new and exciting ones for us to get stuck into post-lockdown. So, make space in your diary as things are about to get busy with our guide to some of the best things to do this July in Birmingham.
1. Devour these delicious ice cream desserts during the warm weather
You may already know this bakery for its epic Double Decker-stuffed pain au chocolats, however The Early Bird Bakery is now branching out into ice cream territory. And if it’s anything like their pastries and brunch dishes, it’s bound to be damn delicious. The bakery in Kings Heath has got many of us excited for their new creations such as chocolate Guinness cake with Baileys ice cream and malt caramel sauce. And with the weather predicted to get warmer this July, the timing couldn’t be better!
2. Hear magical movie soundtracks by candlelight at The Mill
One of the most unique Candlelight venues so far, music fans will be able to experience the beautiful sounds of magical movie soundtracks played by incredibly talented musicians, all the while immersed in a stunning, candlelit environment at The Mill in Digbeth. From Mulan to Moana, Little Mermaid to Lady and the Tramp, there’s a fantastic programme in store – as well as a fully stocked bar to enjoy throughout the event. Get tickets here.
3. Watch the Euros at one of these brilliant Birmingham bars
Beer and footy on the big screen are back with the Euros 2020 now here- and it’s kicking off! With the sun making an appearance in beer gardens and newfound freedom, things are getting booked up ASAP. Whether you’re after multiple screens or a massive projector, craft beer or cocktails, post-match burgers or bowling- there’s a place in Birmingham to meet your needs. Check out our round-up of the best places to watch the Euros in Birmingham[/trackLink] during July.
4. Head to this dreamy outdoor cinema in Staffordshire
This summer, The Luna Cinema is back for an awesome Birmingham run once again. With over 150 screenings planned at 50 sites around the UK, there’s plenty to enjoy wherever you are – but as always, we reckon the West Midlands is the place to be! The Luna Cinema has screenings scheduled during the month of July at the stunning National Memorial Arboretum, with an array of films that will cater to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a rocking singalong, want to settle in for a classic rom-com, or grab the popcorn for a true blockbuster experience, they’ll have you sorted. Grab your tickets here.
5. Dance again!
Ok, so let’s try this again. Clubs and dance floors are finally coming back. Currently expected to return on July 19 under the government’s lockdown exit plan, night clubs will be opening their doors for the first time in 16 months – allowing us to dance, meet with friends and finally enjoy absolute freedom. It’s been a long time coming, but it’ll be well worth the wait.
6. Witness an immersive art experience like no other
Ok, so it might not be Birmingham but if there’s one thing that can tempt us east for a day trip, it’s Van Gogh. Head to Leicester and take an awe-inspiring journey into the incomparable universe of Van Gogh, one of the greatest artistic geniuses of the 19th century. Explore his life, his work, and his secrets as never before through cutting-edge 360 degree digital projections and a uniquely atmospheric light and sound show. Book your tickets here.
7. Visit this new pink paradise pop-up bar at Birmingham’s Bullring
A floral and rose-hued bar has opened on the balcony at The Bullring and boasts brilliant views overlooking St Martin’s Church. Blossom Bar features six pink pagodas and six picnic tables, alongside numerous barstools and pink oil drum tables, for you and five of your friends to enjoy a well-deserved cocktail break in the sunshine. The pink pop-up will be at The Bullring throughout the summer and will be serving glasses and pitchers of the classic summer cocktail, Pimm’s, as well as plenty of other drinks such as champagne, gin, rosé, beer and canned cocktails.
8. Listen to Beethoven’s best works at this classical candlelight concert
Celebrating some of the classical composer’s best works, one of this month’s Candlelight events will see a highly talented string quartet perform his signature compositions, under the roof of The Mill. The Digbeth venue will be completely bathed in candlelight, providing an unbeatable atmosphere that’ll have you feeling on Cloud 9. You don’t need to know all things Beethoven to enjoy the evening, simply sit back and savour the stunning atmosphere and pieces you’ll hear. Classical music enthusiast or not you’re in for a mesmerising night and you can find your tickets here.
9. Discover the bars and entertainment in Birmingham’s Gay Village quarter
Although Pride Month is officially in June, the celebrations and awareness of LGBTQ+ rights are not stopping any time soon. Centred on buzzing Hurst Street, the Gay Village in Birmingham sure knows how to have a good time- day and night. If you’re looking to celebrate ‘Freedom Day’ or want to hit the town any other night of the year, these bars, pubs, cafes, restaurants and clubs in Birmingham’s Gay Village are always packed with fun and great times. Check out our guide to the quarter here.
10. Munch on hot dogs, steak and oysters at this New York-inspired restaurant
New York may be the city that never sleeps but it’s also the city that never stops eating, and now Brum can get on board with that mantra too. Isaac’s restaurant, housed in one of Birmingham’s most iconic buildings on Colmore Row, The Grand Hotel, has its own entrance on Barwick Street and will be serving an array of food influenced by the American city’s signature cuisine. Isaac’s big apple inspired menu features comfort food such as sidewalk-worthy hot dogs with sauerkraut, mustard and ketchup, 30-day aged New York strip steak and classic Caesar salad. In addition, you’ll find iconic brasserie dishes as well as a selection of seafood from rock oysters and lobster, to seabass and cod with grits on the menu at Isaac’s. Discover more about the restaurant here.
11. Sip on prosecco and enjoy the sounds of Stevie Wonder and David Bowie in a brand new way
Redefining everything you thought you knew about classical music, Luna Springs presents: The Untold Orchestra. A collective of musicians who are tearing up the orchestral rule-book and bringing you the freshest symphonies Digbeth’s ever heard. Fronted by a 13-piece orchestra, Luna Springs be bringing you the sounds of the world’s hottest musical icons like Stevie Wonder and David Bowie, in a totally wild new way during the month of July. Some might say they’ve pulled some strings and managed to put together the perfect blend of outrageous partying, tasty tracks and incredible vibes. Grab your tickets to this summer music event here.
12. Get on board this gin train as you steam through the Severn Valley
Enjoy the ultimate vintage day out, as you sit back, relax and enjoy a summer-themed gin train, hosted by The Little Gin Company on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in the summer. Visitors will be welcomed with a refreshing cocktail as they steam from Bewdley towards Bridgnorth, enjoying samples from a summer-themed menu along the way. The next departure date is July 23 so let the party be-gin! Find out more here.