The List

NEC Birmingham

What's On @ NEC Birmingham

BBC Good Food Show Winter

BBC Good Food Show Winter

1 Nov 2026 - 1 Nov 2026

The ultimate festive foodie day out is back! Whether you’re a keen cook looking for some festive dining inspiration, a celebrity chef super-fan or simply looking to top-up your Christmas pantry with seasonal artisan goodies, the Winter show is for YOU! Discover sensational producers, free live cooking demos full of Christmas recipe inspiration, and new festive workshops and tasting sessions. Gather your friends and family and get into the spirit of the season with the BBC Good Food Show Winter!
AnimeCon UK

AnimeCon UK

11 Jun 2026 - 13 Jun 2026

AnimeCon UK is an enormous international Anime, Manga, K-pop Festival! A showcase of the best of Asian pop culture in the UK’s largest exhibition venue. It brings together the communities of anime, manga, artists, Pro cosplayers, K-Pop and J-Pop fanatics all together for three days of unique exhibits, amazing shopping, parties, exclusive screenings, extensive panels, and appearances by some of the world’s biggest creators. AnimeCon is a party, a market, and a music festival; a dedicated showcase of Otaku popular culture; and an amazing space for the anime, manga, K-Pop and J-Pop communities to call their own.
BBC Gardeners’ World Live

BBC Gardeners’ World Live

17 Jun 2026 - 20 Jun 2026

Celebrate everything you love about summer gardening with a day out at BBC Gardeners’ World Live! Packed with garden ideas, plants, and top experts including the Gardeners’ World TV presenters, it’s an essential date for your gardening calendar. Plus, with live entertainment and entry to the BBC Good Food Show Summer, there’s something for all the family!
The Gladiators Experience

The Gladiators Experience

14 May 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

For the first time ever, GladFans across the UK will be able to put their speed, strength and skills to the ultimate test, as the iconic television show explodes into action with Gladiators Experience! Do you have the nerve to traverse the Hang Tough course? Could you be the last person standing in an epic bout of Duel? Would staring up at The Wall inspire you to scale new heights? Will you be swinging to victory at the end of the legendary Eliminator? Taking place at the Birmingham NEC from May 2026, aspiring Contenders can at long last test their mettle in their favourite events! And the action doesn’t end there! Away from the Arena, Gladiators Experience boasts even more fun, family-friendly attractions. There’s The Vault, which delivers an unmissable look behind the scenes of the nation’s favourite TV show. The Gladiator Training Facility, meanwhile, will sharpen the skillset needed to be a true Gladiator, and a huge Superstore will be the only place to purchase exclusive merchandise. Plus, with many other surprises along the way, Gladiators Experience is a spectacle like no other. So whether you’re strapping on your helmet and dusting off your gumshield, or simply celebrating your love of the legendary, culture-defining television show, Gladiators Experience is an unmissable opportunity to live out your Gladiator dreams!
Bake International

Bake International

6 Nov 2026 - 8 Nov 2026

With the very best suppliers, the biggest baking stars, demos, workshops, and a dedicated baking competition the event is not to be missed. Co-located with the world-renowned Cake International you can shop until you drop. Join thousands of baking enthusiasts, from novice to professional, to celebrate the ever-evolving skills and creativity. The halls will be filled to the brim with features, and you won’t want to miss the demos taking place all weekend.
UK Games Expo

UK Games Expo

28 May 2026 - 30 May 2026

UK Games Expo (UKGE) is the largest Hobby Games Convention in the UK - where all aspects of the tabletop gaming hobby are represented under one roof. The event consists of 2 trade halls with hundreds of exhibitors showing, demonstrating, and selling tabletop games of all types including board games, roleplaying games, card games, miniatures, family games and party games. There are tournaments, seminars and workshops and live entertainment shows. There is a large family area with activities for all ages, costumed groups portraying characters from TV and movies, Viking reenactors and a children’s treasure hunt. Other features include one of the world’s largest bring and buy market for second hand games, a massive open gaming area and board game library and a shop and drop.
BBC Good Food Show Summer

BBC Good Food Show Summer

17 Jun 2026 - 20 Jun 2026

Step into summer this June at the BBC Good Food Show Summer! Try and buy from 100s of independent producers and big brands and pick up plenty of recipe inspiration for al fresco dining, indulgent desserts and showstopping dinner parties from our exceptional line-up of chefs and experts. The line-up so far includes James Martin, Nadiya Hussain, Michel Roux, and many more! Plus, you can catch the show’s stars in live interview at the Let’s Talk Good Food Stage and meet them in our daily book signings. If this isn’t enough to tempt you then you’ll also be able to get hands-on in our workshops, drinks masterclasses and tasting sessions. So, what are you waiting for? Book now!
UK Metals Expo
Automotive
Business
Construction

UK Metals Expo

4 Nov 2026 - 5 Nov 2026

UK Metals Expo is the ONLY event bringing the entire metals supply chain together with the engineering and manufacturing sector. From primary metal manufacture to supply chain management, processing metals, fabrication, machinery, engineering, surface coatings and recycling. UK Metals Expo is your opportunity to: In addition to hundreds of exhibitors, the Expo features a seminar programme across four theatres chaired by Lord Redesdale and curated by the UK Metals Council and the business leaders from the full spectrum of the supply chain. The exhibition, conference and all networking opportunities at UK Metals Expo are completely FREE! Visit our website to receive your free ticket and get more information.
The Big Bang Fair

The Big Bang Fair

8 Jun 2026 - 10 Jun 2026

End the school year with a Big Bang! Spark curiosity and excite students with the world of science and engineering at The Big Bang Fair. Attend the UK’s biggest STEM celebration for young people for free – join us in Birmingham to inspire and amaze young people with science, engineering and technology.
Glee
Home & Garden
Trade Show

Glee

7 Sept 2026 - 9 Sept 2026

Glee is the UK's leading garden and outdoor living trade show, hosting the most exciting brands, innovative products and inspiring garden retail insights. As the premium destination for garden and outdoor living inspiration, Glee brings the British, European and International markets together under one roof.
Gravity Show
Automotive
Consumer Show
Days out

Gravity Show

28 Aug 2026 - 29 Aug 2026

Picture this: A spectacular gathering of over 30,000 passionate enthusiasts and families, a jaw-dropping showcase of hundreds of Europe's most mind-blowing show cars, a bustling hub of hundreds of exhibitors ready to unveil the latest innovations, and the UK's wildest live action that will leave you on the edge of your seat. This isn't just an event; it's an automotive extravaganza like no other! Mark your calendars and we'll see you there!
The Festival Of Quilts

The Festival Of Quilts

2 Aug 2026 - 2 Aug 2026

The Festival of Quilts is Europe’s largest quilting event, offering workshops, talks, demonstrations, Textile Galleries showcasing world-renowned artists, one of the world’s biggest quilt competitions, an extensive selection of quilting materials, 200+ brands to shop from, and so much more. Get ready for The Festival of Quilts! - 1200 stunning competition quilts on display - 200+ exhibitors with top-quality patchwork and quilting supplies - Inspiring Textile Galleries from international stars and groups including Luke Haynes, QuiltCon and Sachiko Yoshido - 370+ workshops & talks with world-class tutors - Special guests include Ricky Tims and Joe Cunningham - Don’t miss the must-see quilting event of the year – bigger, bolder, and more inspiring than ever!
The Cat Show Live

The Cat Show Live

11 Sept 2026 - 11 Sept 2026

The Largest Cat event in recent years with 3 globally recognised cat registries (GCCF, Fife & TICA) coming together under one roof to celebrate our feline friends. Think Crufts for Cats without the competition! We guarantee something for all the family with many exciting features. Book now to avoid disappointment.
Good Food Show Winter

Good Food Show Winter

26 Nov 2026 - 29 Nov 2026

-Join us for a festive day out packed with recipe inspiration, tips and tricks from top chefs and experts, hands-on workshops and tastings, unique dining experiences and a huge variety of producers and brands providing the best product knowledge and ingredients advice, as well as tasting and shopping!
The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show
The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show, with discovery+, is making a triumphant return to Birmingham NEC this winter. The show brings together a fantastic array of classic car and motorcycle clubs, with more than 3,000 vehicles on display and over 600 exhibitors. Offering a diverse and exciting display of classic cars, bikes and other vehicles, whether you are a fan of a traditional British classic, an American muscle car, vintage motors or retro hot hatch, the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show is a must-attend for every classic car lover and bike enthusiast.
MCM Birmingham Comic Con

MCM Birmingham Comic Con

6 Aug 2026 - 8 Aug 2026

MCM Comic Con is back in Birmingham this December, for another epic three-day weekend celebrating all the fandoms we love. From gaming and anime, to collectibles and memorabilia, we can’t wait to welcome you home!
Makers Central Show

Makers Central Show

16 May 2026 - 17 May 2026

Makers, creators, and innovators of all ages from across the globe are invited to gather at Makers Central 2026, the UK’s premier event for hands-on creativity, craftsmanship and maker culture, taking place on 16th and 17th May 2026 at the NEC Birmingham. Families and schools are being encouraged to take part in a celebration of design and technology learning, creativity, and problem-solving with opportunities to meet top industry professionals, social media influencers, and innovators from across the world. Designed to inspire makers of all experience levels through real-world making, the event brings science, technology, engineering, and maths to life. Live demonstrations will take place with leading global personalities at the helm. Interactive exhibits will display inventions, robots, cosplay, epic builds, and cutting-edge kit. Jordana Johnson Organiser of Makers Central said: “The show offers attendees the chance to dive into the creative process themselves, with workshops where they can craft items to take home. We want families to leave Makers Central feeling inspired. It is a place where curiosity is encouraged, questions are welcomed, and learning happens through doing whether you are five or fifty.” One of the highlights of this year's event are the hands-on workshop sessions suitable for makers of all ages and experience levels, from beginners to established creators. These include Drone Building with Extreme Fliers where participants build drones. Electronics With MadLab, a beginner-friendly electronics workshop will be great for tinkering with circuits and tech. Jewellery making is also available, as well as leathercraft amongst many other exciting opportunities to make. Attendees can see the stars of Robot Wars up close, as well as have a hand at driving a robot for themselves in the ‘Robot Warriors’ arena. The UK Droidbuilders will showcase their expertise in building droids from unconventional materials, offering insights into the creative process and providing inspiration for aspiring makers. Tickets for Makers Central 2026 are now available, offering access to all the excitement throughout the weekend. Prices start at £25 for entry, with additional workshop experiences available at varying prices.
The Super Weekender

The Super Weekender

14 Nov 2026 - 15 Nov 2026

Get ready for an electrifying line-up of dance performances, workshops and appearances at this year's Super Weekender! With internationally-acclaimed dance groups and legendary choreographers that have worked with the world's biggest celebrities and brands.
VeXpo

VeXpo

17 Sept 2026 - 19 Sept 2026

Come join us for Europe's first ever VTuber convention - a celebration of creators of all sizes! You'll have the opportunity to attend panels and concerts, as well as meet some of your favourite talents! There will also be plenty of things to do, such as visiting our gaming area or maid cafe. For all the up to date information about VeXpo visit our website or stay up to date with our social media.
The National Wedding Show

The National Wedding Show

3 Oct 2026 - 18 Oct 2026

With hundreds of experts you can be sure to tick off many of the wedding planning basics in just one day. From stunning countryside cottages to picturesque villas, meet wedding venue specialists who can make your dream day a reality. Browse collections from the nation’s finest designers, retailers and boutiques and try on as many dresses as you like with no appointments necessary. You will also find a range of award-winning photographers, wedding day cars and entertainment acts. The much-loved Catwalk returns ready to showcase the latest trends in bridalwear, menswear and bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride outfits. Plus, get inspiration for every aspect of your wedding day look with on-trend hair, makeup and accessory ideas. Why not enjoy the show as a VIP? Spoil yourself in the VIP lounge where you’ll discover hidden treats and surprises around every corner. Also included in the VIP package is a goody bag filled with complimentary gifts, reserved catwalk seating, a complimentary glass of fizz, copy of Confetti magazine and fast-track entry to the show.
Leather cash/card holder with Diamond Awl
Makers, creators, and innovators of all ages from across the globe are invited to gather at Makers Central 2026, the UK’s premier event for hands-on creativity, craftsmanship and maker culture, taking place on 16th and 17th May 2026 at the NEC Birmingham. The Leather Cash/Card Holder workshop with Diamond Awl at Makers Central is a hands-on session where you’ll learn traditional leatherworking techniques, including stitching, edging, and embossing, to create your own small leather item to take home. · Dates & times: o Saturday 16 May 2026 – 12:30pm o Sunday 17 May 2026 – 10.30am and 14.30pm · Duration: 90 minutes · Price: £49. A valid Makers Central show ticket is required in addition to your workshop ticket · A great beginner-friendly workshop where you’ll learn practical skills and leave with your own handmade leather piece.
Viking Weave Bracelet with Holly Berkley Jewellery
Makers, creators, and innovators of all ages from across the globe are invited to gather at Makers Central 2026, the UK’s premier event for hands-on creativity, craftsmanship and maker culture, taking place on 16th and 17th May 2026 at the NEC Birmingham. The Viking Weave Bracelet workshop with Holly Berkley Jewellery at Makers Central is a hands-on jewellery-making session where you’ll learn the traditional Viking weave technique. Using wire and simple tools, you’ll create your own woven bracelet and finish it with clasps to take home. It’s suitable for beginners and a great introduction to wirework skills. · Saturday 16 May 2026 10.30am · Sunday 17 May 2026 12:30pm · Duration: Around 2 hours · Price: £39. A valid Makers Central show ticket is required in addition to your workshop ticket · Book here: MC 2026 Viking Weave Bracelet Workshops | ICHF Events A creative, beginner-friendly workshop where you’ll learn a historic craft and leave with your own handmade bracelet. Tickets for Makers Central 2026 are now available, offering access to all the excitement throughout the weekend. Prices start at £25 for entry, with additional workshop experiences available at varying prices.

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