August is packed with personality in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, with something for every taste and mood. Whether you’re up for a laugh at a local comedy night, keen to show off your cake decorating skills, or ready to test your trivia knowledge over a pint, there’s plenty to enjoy. From quirky tours and creative workshops to a food festival and pub quizzes, here’s what’s happening in the JQ this month.
Birmingham Restaurant Festival
The Jewellery Quarter might be famed for its jewellery-making heritage but this trendy area now blends artisan workshops with award-winning dining. With 11 standout venues serving curated festival menus, from Victorian pubs to sleek ramen spots, it’s a foodie destination full of character.
St. Paul’s Summer Fete
This much-loved community event promises a day of family-friendly entertainment, delicious food, live music, and local charm – all in aid of raising essential funds for the upkeep of the church and its outreach work. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome, so bring your friends, family, and neighbours for a summer celebration while supporting a vital part of our community.
This year’s fete will feature a dog agility course for your four-legged friends, a wide range of stalls in collaboration with the Birmingham Artisan Market showcasing handmade crafts, local produce, and gifts, food from Otto Pizza, live music from local performers provided by BlueDot Radio, classic cars, and a bouncy castle.
The Button Factory Pub Quiz
Introducing The Button Factory Big Pub Quiz. This brand new quiz is launching Wednesday 13th August and returning every second Wednesday of the month! They have some HUGE prizes up for grabs, including the full cash pot, a one-night stay at Frederick Street Townhouse and a Shuffleboard & pizza night at Newhall Street Tavern.
A Walk on the Gothic Side
Explore the Gothic side of the Jewellery Quarter with a walking tour that includes two Victorian cemeteries and the Coffin Works Museum. After last year’s sell-out success, this experience invites you to take a walk on the dark side. The tour begins with guide Ian Braisby, who will lead you through two Victorian cemeteries. He’ll share stories about the harsh realities of 19th-century life in Birmingham, along with the darker landmarks of the area, including sites of murder and execution. After the walk, enjoy a guided tour of the Coffin Works. This preserved factory offers a glimpse into the last 100 years of working-class, industrial history. See some of the original Victorian machinery in action and learn how high-quality coffin fittings were made in this unique Jewellery Quarter manufactory.
Summer fun at Eastern Jam
Looking for fun activities this August? Eastern Jam has you covered with three exciting events for all ages. Kick things off with Comedy Night, featuring comedians Alan Francis, Sean Meo, Lovedev Barpaga, and Tony Vino.
For families, don’t miss the Animal Farm experience where kids can meet and take photos with adorable animals after your meal.
And on Tuesday 20th August, treat the little ones (ages 5+) to a fun and tasty Kids Cake Decorating Workshop hosted by Honey Crumb Bakery, with sessions at 11am and 2pm.
