a simple, educational outing ideal for younger children
The summer holidays can quickly become a juggling act for British South Asian parents.
With school out and the kids full of energy, finding activities that are fun, safe, and budget-friendly is a priority.
Luckily, Birmingham and its neighbouring areas are bursting with free events tailored for families who want to enjoy quality time together without stretching the wallet.
From pop-up beaches and lively fairs to cultural exhibitions and creative workshops, there’s a rich variety of options to explore this summer.
Whether you want a calm afternoon away from screens or an exciting day out filled with discovery, the city offers something for every family.
Here’s a carefully curated guide to the best free things to do with your children in and around Birmingham this summer.
Birmingham Beach & Funfair
Birmingham Beach has returned for the summer, this time at Pype Hayes Park, Erdington, and it offers a wonderful space for children to splash about and play safely.
The three large paddling pools and sandy beach area are perfect for little ones to cool off and enjoy the outdoors.
It’s open daily from 12 pm to 8 pm until August 31, weather permitting.
Many South Asian families will appreciate the convenience of this city-centre location for a hassle-free day out where kids can be active and parents can relax.
Swanshurst Park Funfair
The Swanshurst Park Funfair in Billesley is a great spot for children of all ages to experience the joy of traditional fair rides and games.
Running from August 7 to 17, it’s free to enter and offers everything from thrilling rides to classic fair games like hook-a-duck and basketball.
South Asian parents can enjoy sharing this familiar festive atmosphere with their children, offering fun without the cost of expensive outings.
The availability of food stalls also makes it easy to bring the family for a full day of excitement.
Bulls in the City Art Trail
Birmingham’s new Bulls in the City art trail is a fantastic way to combine a family walk with a cultural adventure.
The trail features 40 colourful bull sculptures across the city centre, celebrating a beloved local symbol.
It’s free to explore until September 14, and you can download a trail map or pick one up in the city.
This is a simple, educational outing ideal for younger children to engage with art and the city’s heritage in a fun, interactive way.
New Square Beach
For families willing to take a short trip outside Birmingham, New Square Shopping Centre in West Bromwich offers a free sandy beach open every day until August 30.
Kids can enjoy buckets and spades while parents relax in deckchairs.
There are also extra free activities on select days, perfect for families looking for something new to do.
This destination is especially popular among British South Asian families living in the area, providing a safe, friendly environment for children to play and socialise.
Ozzy Osbourne Exhibition, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
For parents wanting to introduce their children to a slice of Birmingham’s unique culture, the free Ozzy Osbourne: Working Class Hero exhibition is a must-visit.
Running from Wednesdays to Sundays, 10 am to 5 pm until September 28, it showcases the life of the late rock star.
This includes photos, videos, and rare memorabilia.
It’s an engaging way for families to explore local history and music culture together, sparking curiosity in kids and nostalgia in parents.
GIANTS, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Another exhibition at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery that is ideal for curious children during the summer holidays is GIANTS, a mammoth showcase of giant prehistoric animals.
Whilst adults have to pay for tickets, kids aged 15 and under go free between now and November 2 on Wednesdays to Sundays.
Families get the chance to discover creatures that have roamed the earth since the extinction of dinosaurs.
The exhibition also highlights the need to protect current giants like whales and elephants.
Birmingham Weekender
The Birmingham Weekender is a vibrant family-friendly festival that returns for the Bank Holiday weekend from August 23 to 25.
Held across the Bullring, Birmingham Hippodrome, and the Arcadian, this free festival includes colourful installations, performances, and interactive activities perfect for children.
British South Asian parents will appreciate the inclusive, lively atmosphere where children can experience different art forms and cultural expressions in a safe and welcoming environment.
Touchwood Beach, Solihull
Solihull’s Touchwood Beach offers a lovely break for families, featuring a dinosaur-themed beach running until August 31.
Situated in Theatre Square, it’s close to the Core Theatre and Library, providing easy access to additional cultural activities.
The dinosaur theme taps into many children’s natural curiosity, making this a hit with younger kids from British South Asian households who enjoy fun educational outings.
Bank Holiday Weekend at MAC
Birmingham’s Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) hosts family-friendly events celebrating creativity and diversity.
After the success of the inaugural She Creates event on International Women’s Day, the celebration returns to the courtyard for a showcase of women in the creative arts.
There will be market stalls, open DJ decks, poetry readings, live music performances, arts and crafts, and more on August 24.
And expect glittery cakes, acrobatics and colourful fun on Bank Holiday Monday as Levantes Dance Theatre brings the circus to MAC in High Tea (With A Twist).
Lapworth Museum
Situated at the University of Birmingham, the Lapworth Museum is a treasure for inquisitive kids.
The museum’s free entry and specially organised summer fun days make it a must-visit for families wanting to explore fossils and history.
On August 13, children can adopt their own prehistoric pet with author Mark Bardsley, who will be running cartooning and creative writing activities.
On August 20, the Stone Age-themed day offers hands-on learning, and on August 27, a fossils day invites families to uncover prehistoric mysteries.
No booking is required, drop in and out all day from 10 am to 5 pm.
These interactive events are perfect for parents keen to blend fun and education during the holidays.
This summer, Birmingham offers families plenty of ways to create joyful memories without the worry of rising costs.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun at a paddling pool, exploring cultural exhibitions, or joining in community festivals, these free activities provide enriching experiences for children and peace of mind for parents.
Embrace the city’s vibrant summer scene and make the most of these events designed to bring families closer together.
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