What's On in Birmingham

Garage Republic Festival 2026 — LAB11 transforms into a full-blown UK garage cathedral from 1:00pm, with a lineup built for anyone who has ever lost their mind to a two-step bassline. Whether you were there for the original scene or you have come to it fresh, this is the kind of festival-within-a-venue that reminds you why Birmingham's nightlife has always punched above its weight. Tickets run from £12–£33, so grab the early-bird end and settle in for a very long, very happy afternoon.

EVERYWHERE AT ONCE: Bingo Jamz Rooftop Party 25+ — Head up to XOYO Birmingham at 2:00pm for what promises to be one of the city's most atmospheric afternoon sessions — a rooftop party with Bingo Jamz at the controls and the Birmingham skyline doing its best impression of a festival backdrop. The 25+ door policy means this one attracts a crowd that actually wants to dance rather than just be seen, and the open-air setting in late June should be nothing short of glorious. Check the website for ticket details and do not leave it too late.

Mark Dwayne Lord Clifden Garden Party — If your ideal Saturday afternoon involves a cold drink, a proper garden, and some soulful live music without the chaos of a big venue, then Mark Dwayne's garden party at the Lord Clifden is the one. Kicking off at 2:00pm for just £13, this is the kind of relaxed, warm-hearted gig that feels more like a gathering among friends than a ticketed event. The Lord Clifden is one of Birmingham's most beloved independent pubs, and the garden setting in midsummer is about as good as it gets.

The Dirty Nil + Bruise Control + Smug LLC — Canadian rock powerhouse The Dirty Nil roll into The Castle And Falcon at 7:00pm for a night that is going to be very loud and absolutely worth it. Known for their ferocious live energy and a sound that sits somewhere between classic punk urgency and melodic rock hooks, they are supported by Bruise Control and Smug LLC — meaning the undercard alone is worth the £21 price of entry. This is one for anyone who wants to feel the floor shake beneath their feet.

England vs Panama x Luna Springs Fanzone — With England taking on Panama in the World Cup, half of Birmingham will be watching — and Luna Springs Digbeth is arguably the most spectacular place to do it. The outdoor venue's lush, festival-esque grounds come alive from 6:00pm, with big screens, a proper atmosphere, and a crowd that will make every goal feel seismic. Entry starts at £0 (with premium options up to £30), so there really is no excuse not to be part of the moment.

Contamination Club Reunion — For the night owls and the faithful, The Crossing Digbeth hosts this brilliant blast from the past from 10:00pm — a reunion for anyone who knows exactly what Contamination meant to Birmingham's underground club scene. At just £7–£10, it is one of the best-value late nights in the city, and the kind of event where you will spend half the night grinning at strangers who remember the same records you do. Digbeth after midnight, good music, good people — this is what Saturday is for.