“I’m over the moon”: Joe Lycett on the city’s turnout for International Day of Birmingham
Victoria Square, Birmingham was filled with people celebrating the city they come from
Last updated 24th Sep 2024
From a brass band, to dancing, and lots of confetti, the people of Birmingham were not shy when it came to shouting about their city this September 24th.
It’s the first time the International Day of Birmingham has been celebrated.
It was created by comedian, Joe Lycett, who was born in Hall Green, Birmingham.
“It’s my home. I could tell you something that’s happened on every street here.
“We have a lot to offer but I think there’s been a long time where we’ve not shouted about it”.
He wanted to use the day to unite all the other places in the world also called ‘Birmingham’.
Joe invited a delegation of his American counterparts from other Birminghams as well as some local celebrities.
He even created a flag representing the ‘United States of Birmingham’ which got hoisted in the air at the end of the celebrations.
“We’ve had Black Sabbath, UB 40, loads of mayors and then this incredible reception from the Birmingham people.
“It’s going to take me a few days to take it all in,” said Lycett.
Lycett hopes this will be the first of many years the city celebrates International Day of Birmingham.
People like Pip who lives in the city could not agree more: “It’s about time we had a day to celebrate our city!
“We get marginalised, and everyone thinks we’re a bit rubbish but we know that we’re brilliant with such a melting pot of different cultures,” said Pip.
The party continued long after Joe Lycett left the party, with the crowd chanting Birmingham’s famous phrase “Alright Bab!”.