Birmingham is gearing up to host its inaugural 'Ozzy Day' on Wednesday, 23 July 2026 – a one-year anniversary tribute to the legendary musician's life and legacy. The city will be awash with music, memories, and art as it honours Ozzy Osbourne's profound impact on the world of rock and his deep roots in Birmingham.
The 'Ozzy Day' programme is packed with free events and tributes delivered by Central BID Birmingham and OPUS (Outdoor Places Unusual Spaces) in collaboration with Birmingham City Council, Birmingham New Street, and Westside BID. Highlights include public art installations dedicated to the Black Sabbath frontman, live performances that will get the crowd singing along, and shared moments of reflection on his life, legacy, and indelible connection to the city. Even 'Ozzy The Bull', a mechanical bull from the 2022 Commonwealth Games named after him, will be specially adorned for the occasion.
Visitors and residents are invited to explore significant locations that shaped Ozzy's journey – think iconic landmarks like the Black Sabbath Bench and Bridge, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Birmingham New Street Station, Bullring, Selfridges, and Martineau Place. The Bostin Brass band will return with pop-up performances of his and Black Sabbath's music, while musicians from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) will stage a special lunchtime show at Bullring.
Birmingham Music Archive will set up shop at Birmingham New Street, inviting fans to contribute their personal stories, memories, and reflections on Ozzy's extraordinary influence in a commemorative guestbook. OPUS has commissioned short films documenting Birmingham's tribute, ensuring the day's significance is locked in for generations to come. And as if that weren't enough, a limited-edition T-shirt featuring a graphic from Osbourne's 'Back To The Beginning' farewell concert and listing all 52 of his Birmingham performances will be produced.
The celebration extends beyond the city centre with the launch of a new 'Patient Number 9' Golden Ale created in partnership with Hobsons Brewery. This 'Ozzy Day' follows posthumous honours including Osbourne receiving the Birmingham Lord Mayor’s Award on what would have been his 77th birthday and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the BRITs 2026 – a testament to the enduring impact of this music legend. His widow, Sharon Osbourne, has also announced plans for an Ozzy exhibition in Birmingham featuring his personal items, which will tour globally.