Chamber joins International Day of Birmingham celebrations

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) is today joining the city-wide International Day of Birmingham (IDOB) celebrations.

The event - which recognises the Second City and its people, alongside sister Birminghams around the world - has become an annual celebration since beginning life on Joe Lycett’s Sky TV show United States of Birmingham.

Organisers have assembled a cast including artists, astronauts, ballet dancers, chefs, comedians, historians, musicians, politicians and poets for the 2026 festivities.

This year’s initiatives include ‘The House That Brum Built’, with 10 of Birmingham Council House’s grandest rooms being turned into a “Brummie bazaar” of art exhibitions, a botanical garden, a community cinema, workshop spaces and a pop-up Irish pub.

Events will kick off with a ‘FlashBab’ in Victoria Square, where visitors are invited to join a communal chant of “Alright bab” ahead of the official flag-raising ceremony with the Lord Mayor of Birmingham and city legend Mr Egg.

The Chamber is a supporting partner in this year’s International Day of Birmingham through its Brumbassadors initiative.

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the GBCC, said: “International Day of Birmingham has grown into a genuine celebration of the city's identity, its achievements and its global connections – powered by people who simply decided Birmingham deserved a moment in the spotlight.

“I often hear from our business community that Birmingham’s story is too often told by people looking in from the outside – and it doesn't reflect the city we know and love.

“Today is our chance to seize the narrative. The Chamber is proud to be a partner in IDOB, and I’d encourage businesses across the city to get involved - whether that's posting about what you love about Birmingham on social media or getting your team down to Victoria Square to join the celebrations. Let's bang the drum for Brum.”

IDOB is the brainchild of Nicola Silk, who produced the United States of Birmingham TV series.

Nicola, who was a panellist at the Chamber’s latest Brumbassadors event at Birmingham City Football Club, said: “International Day of Birmingham is the most Birmingham thing ever to happen in Birmingham.

“It’s a celebration of the city and its creative genius. The best way to get involved is to come along, support the event and just be there – all are welcome!

“I’m a Brummie and Birmingham is the best city on the planet, so why not shout about it?”

The first episode of the Chamber’s new Brumbassadors podcast series focuses on International Day of Birmingham – with city curator Alex Nicholson-Evans and Edgbaston stadium CEO Stuart Cain sharing what they love about Brum.

Speaking about IDOB, Alex said: “I just love the day. I love that it’s come about through such organic means as well.

“They (the organisers) have just made it such a gorgeous celebration of joy and Birmingham and friendship.

“It’s exactly what the city needs - more of these beautiful, fun, curious, joy-filled moments.” 

Pictured: The 'Flashbab' at last year's International Day of Birmingham celebrations (credit: Kate Hollingsworth)