International Day of Birmingham returns for a second year
Everyone is invited to celebrate this annual tribute to the historic alliance of Birminghams, championed by Brummie comedian Joe Lycett.
Calling all Brummies, honorary Brummies, and anyone who loves Birmingham, make sure to grab a glass of local tap water, belt out “Alright Bab!” at full volume, and join the fun as International Day of Birmingham (IDOB) returns on Wednesday 24 September 2025.
In 2024 Joe, with support from the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, officially designated September 24th as International Day of Birmingham, a day when Birminghams worldwide will celebrate their shared Brummie heritage with a collective chant of “Alright Bab.”
This year, celebrations will take place at different venues and locations across the city starting with a flashbab-flashmob and “Alright Bab” chant led by the Lord Mayor in Colmore Square from 1pm and a flag raising in Victoria Square.
Amongst the day’s activity, there will be a free photography exhibition to visit at Zellig in the Custard Factory, a screening at the Old Rep and an opportunity to create your own paper mâché Mr Egg as part of Mr Eggshibition at the Nest.
There is also a 6-kilometre running tour around Birmingham with buildings been lit up across the city to celebrate the second International Day of Birmingham.
Lord Mayor Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE said “Last year, we made history with the inaugural International Day of Birmingham. From the brass band parade to the hoisting of the United States of Birmingham flag, it was a joyful celebration of Brummie pride.
I am very proud that the event is returning for a second year, and this year is set to be another wonderful celebration of everything brilliant about Birmingham.
I know it will be a great showcase of the spirit and humour of our city not only in the UK but also Birminghams across the world. I hope as many people as possible can get involved with a great programme of Brum-based events and activities and celebrate the second International Day of Birmingham.”
Joe Lycett said “‘I am looking forward to once more celebrating this incredibly precious day in the global calendar by shouting ‘alright bab’ with the Lord Mayor before sinking 6-8 pints and inhaling a King Kebab at 3am.”
Find more more about the day’s celebration on the website: https://www.idob.co.uk/
