While the whole world is heading to Birmingham this July to catch Black Sabbath—and spending a small fortune to do so—not everyone will get to (or want to) see the heavy metal pioneers. Instead, discover “your new favourite band, guaranteed” at What’s Happenin’? Digbeth.
“Liverpool has ‘Sound City’, Manchester has ‘NBHD’, Leeds has ‘Live at Leeds’, now Birmingham has ‘What’s Happenin’? Digbeth.,” say festival organisers. “ We want to grow it every year into something the city can be proud of, that offers more opportunity and more incredible memories as it naturally evolves.”
Across four stages, in three of Birmingham’s most influential independent venues (Mama Roux’s, The Night Owl and Dead Wax), Digbeth will come alive with a full day of live music on Saturday, July 19. From rising local talent to breakthrough national acts, this alternative all-day music festival promises 25+ acts of different genres.
Plus, with a belief that live music should be accessible for everyone, it’s a helluva lot cheaper than the alternatives. It’s just £20 for a first wave ticket, working out as 66p per artist. So far, the line-up consists of: CQ Wrestling, The Molotovs, Tom A Smith, M60, Keyside, The Manatees, Good Health Good Wealth, Zo Lief, Cusp, Alright, Luca Simian.
Expect a 10-hour day of raw energy, talent, and creativity that’s helping fuel Digbeth’s small venues. And, with plans to grow even more in 2026, what are you waiting for? Get in there early to say “I went to the first one”! To get your tickets to What’s Happenin’? Digbeth head here.