Refugee Week is the world’s largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary.
The theme for 2026 is Courage. For refugees around the world, courage is often a daily necessity. It is the courage to face unknown journeys, learn new languages, navigate unfamiliar systems, or simply to wake up each morning and step into an uncertain world.
At a time when some seek to divide and blame, Refugee Week 2026 calls us to come together and share the courage to welcome, to stand for what we believe in, and to celebrate culture and community – to be joyful, imagine new possibilities, dream, heal, and connect.
Courage isn’t always loud or bold. It can be found in simple acts: opening your door to a neighbour, trying new food, reading a book, or watching a film that changes your view of the world. It can be speaking up, asking for help, sharing your story – or simply having the courage to be yourself.
Through art, stories, and community, we celebrate the courage that lives within us all – and how connection helps it grow.
Events
There’s lots going on in Birmingham – we’d love you to join our film night on Thurs 18th June, and to check out other events throughout the week (and beyond)!
Schools of Sanctuary Exhibition
Throughout June at Children’s Library in the Library of Birmingham, open Mondays and Tuesdays: 11:00am to 7:00pm, Wednesday to Saturday: 11:00am to 5:00pm
Schools in Birmingham have submitted artworks inspired by the idea of ‘Courage’. An online exhibition is also available on the Birmingham City of Sanctuary website.
Mosaic workshop
Thursday 18th June, 13.00 – 16.00, at Perrett’s Folly, Waterworks Road, B16 9AL
With Re:Future Collective – making mosaics – tickets via Eventbrite
Film Night
Thursday 18th June, 19.00-20.30 – at Priory Rooms, Bull Street, B4 6AF
Join us and Birmingham City of Sanctuary and Peace Hub for four short films exploring Courage. We hope to have speakers with lived experience joining us, and reflections on how we can take inspiration from the films to make this welcome a reality in our city.
Entry is free (donations welcome). Doors open at 6:30pm, the films start at 7pm. Tea and coffee will be available in the atrium for £2.
Prayers for Healing and Hope
Friday 19th June, 13.30 – 15.00 at St Martin’s in the Bull Ring, B5 5BB
Personal and confidential, organised by the Oasis Church.
Celebrating Sanctuary Festival
Saturday 20th June,12:30 – 5pm at Midlands Arts Centre
An afternoon of music, presentations, stalls and activities for all the family – Live music from around the world in the heart of Birmingham! Drop in any time for this free event – read more about the music and activities.
There will also be a walk of welcome arriving for the start of the event – get in touch for more details.
Sunday 21st June, 11.30 – 13.30 at Symphony Hall
Join Celebrating Sanctuary for a Brunchtime event at Symphony Hall, with live music, spoken word and information stalls. Music from around the world in one of the City Centre’s most prestigious venues! Read more.
Community events
There are also a number of arts and sports events specifically for the local refugee community and those supporting them – get in touch for details.