Taking place every four years, the Commonwealth Games are a celebration of sports across 54 countries worldwide. This year, the event is being hosted in Birmingham, with events across multiple arenas and stadiums in the city.
If you’re planning on travelling down for this unique experience, you’re in for a treat as we’ve rounded up a guide on everything you need to know ahead of the event!
What are the Commonwealth Games?
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The Commonwealth Games is a well-known sporting event held every four years to celebrate culture, community and cooperation across nations. The games are comprised of over 20 different sports such as running, shooting, gymnastics and swimming with over 300 events total this year. The event will be held between 28th July – 8th August across sporting venues in Birmingham and surrounding areas.
Games and Events
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With over 300 events being held this year, there will be plenty to see and enjoy. Here are just a few favourites and where they’re being held across the city.
Athletics
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Most of the athletics and Para-athletics games will be held at the Alexander Stadium at the heart of the city. It will also host the ever-popular opening and closing ceremonies for the games, with plenty of special guests and theatrics. This newly renovated stadium often hosts major international sporting events, such as the Diamond League and British Championships. It is also home to the Birchfield Harriers Athletics Club. The stadium has been modernised for the 2022 event with a capacity of 20,000.
Stay Nearby: Birmingham Perry Barr | Birmingham Streetly | Birmingham Sutton Coldfield
Swimming
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The Sandwell Aquatics Centre will be hosting the swimming events for this year, such as diving and lane swimming. With its state of the art 25m diving pool, community pool and 50m Olympic sized pool, this venue located in Smethwick is perfect for seating up to 1,000 spectators. They have had a £73 million renovation for the opening of the Commonwealth Games, set to be completed in Spring 2022.
Stay Nearby: Birmingham Oldbury | West Bromwich | Birmingham Central Broadway Plaza
Gymnastics
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Arguably the biggest arena in Birmingham, the Utilita Arena Birmingham will be hosting both Artistic and Rhythmic gymnastics for this year’s event. Smack bang in the city centre, the arena usually hosts a variety of music artists and entertainment shows, but it will be transformed for the games this year seating over 15,800 guests.
Stay Nearby: Birmingham Central | Birmingham Central Newhall Street | Birmingham Central Broadway Plaza
Things to do in Birmingham
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If you’re planning to head down to Birmingham to celebrate the games in person or maybe get involved, then make the most of the trip by filling your schedule with things to do! There are plenty of things to see and do in Birmingham and we have rounded up a few favourites.
Have a browse in Birmingham Bull Ring
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Birmingham has an extensive range of shopping options to suit all tastes and budgets. The city has some seriously impressive shopping centres with the Bullring at its heart. Here you’ll find the iconic Selfridges building, home to designer brands and, of course, the world famous food hall.
Stay Nearby: Birmingham Central Moor Street | Birmingham Central Bull Ring | Birmingham Central Newhall Street
Visit SEA LIFE Birmingham
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If you love all things animal and wildlife, why not take a dive into a world of magical discoveries at the National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham? Marvel at the cheeky antics of the Gentoo penguins before meeting a crab or starfish at the Interactive Rockpool.
Stay Nearby: Birmingham Central | Birmingham Central Broadway Plaza | Birmingham Central Newhall Street
Catch a show at the Hippodrome
As one of the UK’s busiest theatres, Birmingham Hippodrome is perfect for anyone looking to put their feet up and relax. Packed with a variety of shows such as live performances, plays and theatre productions, there will be something for everyone no matter the day.
Stay Nearby: Birmingham Central Bull Ring | Birmingham Central Moor Street | Birmingham Central
Test your limits at the Bear Grylls Experience
