Star-studded line-up announced for International Day of Birmingham 2026

The first details of an extraordinary programme celebrating people, places and culture have been revealed ahead of the city's annual International Day of Birmingham.

Brummie figures including artists, astronauts, ballet dancers, chefs, comedians, historians, musicians, politicians and poets are amongst a starry cast assembled for the 2026 edition - taking place on Thursday 24 September.

The Council House will be transformed into ‘The House That Brum Built’ for the occasion, with ten of its grandest rooms hosting a Brummie bazaar, art exhibitions, a botanical garden, a community cinema, workshop spaces and a pop-up Irish pub.

Confirmed names include Poet Laureate Ayan Aden (pictured), astronaut and film producer Trevor Beattie, social historian Professor Carl Chinn, authors Catherine O'Flynn, Mike Gayle and Kit de Waal, comedian Barbara Nice, politician Jess Phillips, chef Glynn Purnell and artist Cold War Steve.

Highlights include a takeover of the Glass Corridor by Birmingham Botanical Gardens, a pop-up Irish pub from Nortons Digbeth complete with Guinness and Brummie cobs, and a secret door through to Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery's Ozzy Osbourne and Joe Lycett exhibitions. Independent cinema Mockingbird will also screen features, shorts and archive gems across both days, including a showcase of Trevor Beattie-produced work.

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 celebration, which began life on Joe Lycett's Sky TV show United States of Birmingham, recognises the city and its people alongside sister Birminghams around the world.

Nicola Silk, producer of International Day of Birmingham, said: "We invite Brummies and visitors to immerse themselves in the city's creativity and have a laugh at the same time.

"Where else could you see Birmingham Royal Ballet and Mr Egg on the same bill?!

"This is also a once in a lifetime chance to play bingo in the seat of local government, which is no doubt the best use of the space."