Birmingham Hippodrome and Bullring have announced Birmingham Weekender is making its much-anticipated return to the city centre this August Bank Holiday weekend.

Taking place from Saturday 23 August to Monday 25 August, the free family-friendly festival will span across the city centre with colourful outdoor installations, exhilarating performances and engaging experiences for all.

Produced by Birmingham Hippodrome in partnership with Bullring, this year’s programme celebrates the very best local, national, and international artists.

The festival kicks off on Saturday with a vibrant dance and music carnival by ACE Dance and Music, featuring high-energy processions in and around Bullring.

Across the Bank Holiday weekend, festival-goers can expect a varied programme, including international productions and installations presented in partnership with Global Streets, as well as exciting new national commissions from Without Walls, bringing some of the UK’s leading outdoor artists to the city centre.

Accessibility remains a core commitment of Birmingham Weekender, with British Sign Language (BSL) interpreted and audio described performances, accessible viewing areas and a team of dedicated access hosts working across the festival and at the festival access hub.

Matt Evans, Head of Festivals & Sites at Birmingham Hippodrome, said: “Birmingham Weekender is a celebration of who we are as a city and this year’s festival will once again bring people together to share unforgettable moments in our streets and public spaces. Stay tuned – we can’t wait to reveal the full programme – there’s so much to look forward to!”

Danielle Bozward, Marketing & Placemaking Manager at Bullring, added: “We’re absolutely thrilled to bring Birmingham Weekender back for this August Bank Holiday weekend. Whether you’re discovering something new, dancing in the streets, or soaking up the atmosphere, the festival promises an extraordinary weekend for all.”

Birmingham Weekender runs from Saturday 23 August to Monday 25 August. The full programme will be announced in the coming weeks.

Birmingham Weekender is produced by Birmingham Hippodrome in partnership with Bullring. The festival is supported by Arts Council England, Without Walls, Global Streets, Network Rail & United By 2022.