Birmingham is today paying tribute to one of its most celebrated sons, Ozzy Osbourne, with a series of free events across the city exactly one year after his death. Dubbed 'Ozzy Day', the celebrations honour the Black Sabbath frontman, who passed away on 22 July 2025, recognising his profound connection to Birmingham, where he grew up and helped pioneer the heavy metal genre.
Visitors are invited to explore various landmarks linked to the Aston-born musician, enjoy live musical performances, view dedicated exhibitions, and contribute their personal memories of the rock icon. Event organisers have encouraged fans from across the UK and beyond to join in the unique commemoration.
Among the day's highlights are multiple pop-up performances by Bostin Brass, the Birmingham band that previously played during Osbourne's funeral procession. They will perform Black Sabbath and Ozzy's solo hits at locations including Birmingham New Street station, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Selfridges, the Black Sabbath Bench, and Martineau Place throughout the day.
At Birmingham New Street station, the Birmingham Music Archive is collecting fan stories and tributes in a commemorative guestbook, aiming to create a lasting record of this inaugural Ozzy Day. Fans can also have free Polaroid photos taken with a specially decorated 'Ozzy the Bull' statue on the station concourse. Meanwhile, the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) will deliver an Ozzy-themed performance at the Bullring at lunchtime, following their impromptu tribute at New Street Station last year.
The popular 'Ozzy Osbourne: Working Class Hero' exhibition at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery remains open until September, featuring artefacts such as Osbourne's iconic throne from Black Sabbath's final Villa Park show. Additionally, a 'Back To The Beginning' photo exhibition is available in Grand Central, and a Black Sabbath trail guides visitors to significant city spots, including The Crown pub where the band played their first gig. An independent 'Ozzy Walk' is also raising money for the homeless.