Autumn is underway; the sun is starting to set earlier and the temperature is dropping, but that doesn’t mean there’s little fun to be had. With awesome events such as Oktoberfest and Halloween taking place this month, it means we needn’t have to stay indoors. Plus, October is bursting with exhibitions and performances for you to indulge in, let alone the food and drink. So, without further ado, here’s our guide to the best things to do in Bristol to make for an epic October.
1. Join the Bavarian celebrations of Oktoberfest with beer and bratwurst
Why go to Germany when Germany can come to you? Dust off your lederhosen, top up on the best Bavarian beer from ALDI and start blasting all the greatest German folk music hits. Because Bavaria is coming to Birmingham. Oompah! There are lots of great Oktoberfest celebrations taking place in the city too to embrace the stein swigging festivities. Such as at Factory Works and Albert’s Schloss. Did someone say: Wo sind die Hände?
2. Discover a new side of Birmingham with a walking tour of the city
If you’re after an excuse to step away from the computer for a couple of hours, or looking at a wandering weekend city break, go no further than Birmingham. The beautiful city brims with a bustling, modern life and rich, historical past. Whether you want to learn about the real-life Peaky Blinders or see the best of Digbeth’s graffiti art, we’ve got you covered. Check out our guide to the best walking tour in Birmingham.
3. Sip on a warming mug of delicious hot chocolate
With autumn in full swing, it means hot chocolate season has arrived. From sophisticated mugs of rich, chocolatey heaven, to goblets of milky goodness with gooey marshmallows and cream, there are plenty of places in Birmingham to grab a hug in a mug that is hot chocolate. Just what the doctor ordered! Check to out our guide to Birmingham’s dreamiest hot chocolates where you can sip on the hot drink happily and escape the unpredictable British weather.
4. Hunt around Birmingham for free tacos
Revolución de Cuba has hidden over 50 tokens in Birmingham this month, which entitles you to one free taco dish (with each dish containing two tacos) until the end of October. With a range of mouth-watering fillings from Ginger Beer Chicken with Pineapple Salsa, Pulled Beef with Tomato Salsa and Mojo Pulled Pork with Pineapple Salsa, there is also a delectable vegan Jackfruit Chilli choice, ensuring all taco tastes are catered for. A great excuse to get exploring the city!
5. Head to this kitty cafe for a cappuccino and a cat cuddle
The special relationship between humans and cats dates back 10,000 years. We love them – but not every has time, space or money to have their own. That’s why we’ve got the next best thing for you to head to this October. Kitty Cafe is more of a cat rescue centre than it is a coffee shop, but their comfortable sofas offer both felines and human friends a place to relax. You can also enojoy some afternoon tea, while you play. Purr-fect.
6. Head to this haunting Hans Zimmer candlelight concert
If you know cinema then you have undoubtedly heard the name Hans Zimmer. Even if you haven’t heard his name you’ve definitely heard his work. The now legendary composer has been moulding our musical experiences through film and tv since as far back as the 1980s. He has had his hand in almost all realms of music. Zimmer has provided his musical wizardry on the likes of Iron Man, The Simpson’s, and even FIFA 19. Now on October 8 you have the chance to experience this in a way you never have before at Birmingham Cathedral by candlelight. Tickets available here.
7. Go pumpkin picking
It’s October which which means seasonal events like Halloween and Bonfire Night are creeping our way, plus the huge countdown to Christmas. But first on the agenda for autumn has to be Halloween. Whether you’re doing it for the ‘gram or just absolutely love getting your carve on, there are a number of pumpkin patches near Birmingham you can visit this autumn. From the start of October through to Halloween, pumpkin patches near Birmingham will not only be brimming with pumpkins but also plenty of activities to get involved in from carving to photoshoots with your produce. Check out the best pumpkin patches near Birmingham where you can pick your own pumpkins here.
8. Cosy up or cower at home with one of these spine-tingling movies or series
This year’s Halloween celebrations have to make up for last year’s sitting-in-the-house-avoiding-others, but there’s always space for some spooky films and popcorn. So, whether you’re going out or staying in on October 31, there’s plenty of times to squeeze in a few of these fantastic films. Check out our picks from the top streaming services in the UK, then bust out those skull-shaped sweets you bought on a whim from the supermarket and start chomping!
9. Face your fears at a spooky carnival of twisted circus performers
This Halloween, well October 28, prepare for scariest circus you’ve ever seen. A whole cast of a whole host of freaky characters are taking over Birmingham’s Sector 57 and showing off twisted performances and astonishing acts. Witness hypnotic acts, crazy contortions and a stomach-churning Creepshow. All sound-tracked by heart-pumping music by DJs across two rooms. Other highlights of the six-hour event include fortune tellers, oversized props, confetti showers, a huge ball pit and unlimited popcorn. You can get you tickets to Twisted Circus by heading here.
10. Find a good cafe to relax and work in
Something mainly for new and returning students. But those still WFH can still get involved. It can suck being at home all day when there’s a mountain work to be done. Everything quickly becomes an annoyance. Especially when the nights are getting darker and the days are getting colder. That’s why it’s so important to establish somewhere you can find respite away from home, and still get some work done. Luckily, we’re rounded up some great cafes to relax and study in this month.
11. Get involved with Black History Month
The biggest black history event and cultural market in Europe returns to Birmingham on October 29. It is a marketplace for developing and developed businesses to showcase opportunities. While entertainment will also be provided, including plays, interviews, spoken word and other performances happening on the stage. In the evening there will be lectures and interviews from special guest speakers. On October 22, an evening talk in recognition of the 25th anniversary of the death of Stephen Lawrence will be held at Millennium Point. See more Black History Month events happening in Birmingham by heading here.