The NEC is perhaps one of the most widely recognised events and entertainments venues in Europe. Every year the 20 interconnected halls play host to over 140 trade shows, plus meetings and more besides. The NEC is huge with over 186,000 square meters indoors, plus over 160,000 acres of hard standings and 75 acres of woodland outside, playing host to a wealth of events throughout the year.
The National Wedding Show
From Friday 28th February to 2nd of March 2014, the NEC transforms into a brides’ paradise. Showcasing the best in the wedding suppliers, with over 250 of the country’s leading suppliers present, you’re sure to find everything you need for your wedding under one roof. A perfect trip for a bride and her husband to be, or even a girlie weekend away with the bridesmaids, why not book into one of the Travelodge hotels in Birmingham and treat yourselves to a weekend in a wedding wonderland? With designer and boutique areas, catwalk shows, designer flower market, vintage area, experts area and even a champagne bar and vintage café, this is THE wedding fair to visit.
Crufts
The biggest celebration of dogs in the world, Crufts is a wonderful event to attend if you love dogs. Held between the 6th and 9th of March 2014, this four day canine extravaganza features over 400 stalls, a chance to see over 200 breeds of dog and over 22,000 pooches competing for the coveted title of Best in Show.
The Big Bang
The UK’s largest celebration of science, technology, maths and engineering for young people. This award winning event features field experts, demonstrations, workshops, careers information and so much more. Get up close and personal with all that these exciting subjects have to offer both now and in the future. This four day science fair is held between 13th and 16th March 2014.
The Gadget Show
Bringing the tv show to life, The Gadget Show runs over 5 days between the 9th and 13th of April 2014 and showcases the best in cutting edge technology. Join the presenters live on stage in the Super Theatre for interactive features, presenter challenges and special guests. The toy arena is where you get your hands on the latest gadgets and watch demonstrations of the latest “toys” on the market. The game zone is returning again for 2014 – a dedicated area for keen gamers with demos, special guests from the gaming world and product launches too.
Perhaps combine your trip to one of the many shows and events at the NEC with a shopping trip. Birmingham is home to The Bullring which offers some great opportunities for shopping and dining. If something a little more active or intellectual is more your style, why not try the Think Tank Museum or the Jewellery Quarter, National Sea Life Centre, karting or maybe ice skating? Birmingham is a city offering a huge wealth of entertainment and actives to suit everyone, adults and children alike.