Things To Do In Solihull

Curated by The City Brief · Edited by Dean Withey · Updated 5 October 2026

Solihull provides a variety of things to do across entertainment, sport, culture, and family activities. With strong links to the automotive industry and a reputation for community events, the area appeals to both locals and visitors exploring the West Midlands. Solihull’s event calendar reflects its character, organised, accessible, and focused on genuine community participation. The town centre is the main focal point for activity, with shopping, dining, and cultural events in accessible locations. Beyond the commercial district, Solihull extends into quieter residential areas and green spaces where family-friendly attractions and outdoor activities take centre stage. Places to visit in Solihull range from the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), host to major international events like Crufts, to local festivals celebrating music, food, and arts. Annual events shape Solihull’s calendar. The Solihull Festival brings together local performers and food vendors for a celebration of arts and culture. The Solihull Jazz Festival attracts regional musicians and enthusiasts, while the Free Music Festival activates Mell Square with live performances across multiple venues. The Solihull Fireworks Extravaganza draws thousands each autumn, and Crufts remains one of the world’s largest dog shows, drawing international visitors to the NEC. Whether you’re interested in attending performances, seasonal festivals, local shopping, or family activities, Solihull's event scene caters to different interests throughout the year. The town’s infrastructure supports regular and one-off visitors, with good transport links via Solihull Railway Station and the Air-Rail Link. You can explore current listings to discover what’s happening this week or plan for major seasonal events. The town rewards those who look beyond the obvious, smaller community events often provide authentic engagement with local culture.

Your approach to Solihull depends on whether you're based in the town centre or exploring further afield. The town centre clusters most cultural venues and shopping within walking distance, ideal if you prefer compact exploration. If attending the NEC for events like Crufts, the Air-Rail Link bypasses town-centre parking challenges. For regular visitors, consider whether you’re drawn to large-scale annual events or smaller weekly programming. Major festivals occur at predictable times, so planning ahead pays off. Mid-week events tend to attract local audiences and offer a different atmosphere. Cycling is increasingly viable across Solihull thanks to the cycle hire scheme. If parking concerns you, Touchwood Shopping Centre car park provides central access, though congestion near the town centre peaks during shopping hours. For leisure visits, check event listings before travelling, many activities cluster at specific times. Browsing our categories and this-weekend features helps you identify what suits your schedule and interests.

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Which Solihull Venues Host The Most Events?

The NEC hosts many events, including major conferences, exhibitions, and consumer shows year-round. Crufts, attracting over 20,000 visitors, has been held there since 1948. The venue also hosts automotive events and consumer expos. Beyond the NEC, Mell Square is Solihull’s community events hub, especially during the Free Music Festival, which features over 15 venues.

Where Can I Find Live Music In Solihull?

Solihull’s jazz offerings centre on the annual Solihull Jazz Festival, bringing regional performers to venues across the borough. The Free Music Festival, held in Mell Square, also features live music performances across multiple venues. Check our nightlife category for the latest gigs and regular performances happening at local establishments. Consider exploring venues near Solihull Railway Station for convenient evening access.

How Often Are Solihull Event Listings Updated?

Event listings are updated regularly to reflect new programming and schedule changes. For the most current information, browse this-weekend features or check individual venue pages within our categories. We recommend checking back weekly if you’re planning mid-week activities, as many smaller events are confirmed closer to their dates. Keep an eye out for annual events such as the Solihull Festival, or the large-scale Crufts International Dog Show at the NEC. The Solihull Jazz Festival and Solihull Fireworks Extravaganza also draw considerable attendance. For free entertainment, look out for performances during the Solihull Free Music Festival, which utilizes Mell Square. Remember to consult listings closer to your intended visit for the most accurate details.

What Kinds Of Events Happen In Solihull During The Week?

Weekday programming in Solihull leans towards community activities, local markets, and smaller cultural events. Mell Square and the town centre regularly host markets and gatherings. The Solihull Festival, Solihull Jazz Festival, and Solihull Free Music Festival, when scheduled, often span multiple days. Check our listings to discover quieter alternatives to weekend crowds, or perhaps time your visit to coincide with The Crufts International Dog Show at the NEC.

What Are The Most Popular Event Categories In Solihull?

Solihull’s event calendar emphasises festivals, live music, and community celebrations. The annual Solihull Festival, alongside the Solihull Free Music Festival – featuring performances across Mell Square – attract thousands each year. The Solihull Jazz Festival brings regional enthusiasts to venues throughout the borough. Family-oriented activities and seasonal events, particularly the Solihull Fireworks Extravaganza, ensure year-round participation. Shopping and retail events remain popular, especially around the town centre and Touchwood. International events at the NEC, including Crufts, form another major category. Browse our full categories to discover events aligning with your interests.

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Events In Solihull This Weekend

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Events In Solihull This Week

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