Following student feedback, 2026 marks the third year of 'UoB Xtra' - our programme of free events, activities and opportunities designed for you to unwind, connect and learn before the end of the academic year.
Over the three weeks, there were lots of exciting and fun activities that took place on and off campus for all students to enjoy. Here are some of our highlights...
Open Air Cinema
During the first week of UoB Xtra, a corner of campus is transformed into an open air cinema, showing two films a day, chosen by students. With deck chairs and bean bags, students could turn up and catch classics such as Cars, Mamma Mia, Shrek 2, Pride and Prejudice, and Avatar, to name a few from previous years. There was something for everyone and we look forward to seeing what will be on the big screen in 2026!
Outdoor games and sport
There are always lots of opportunities for fun in the sun (although there's nearly always summer showers...) with friends as campus is filled with fun activities from inflatables, to mini golf and this year a roller skate rink. Students can also join in free sport activities on Wednesday. There's something for everyone to get involved in.
Tours around campus and Birmingham
UoB Xtra provides students a chance to learn more about campus and the city. Just a short walk from our Edgbaston campus is Winterbourne House and Garden - a unique heritage attraction set within seven acres of beautiful botanical gardens. As part of UoB Xtra, students get the chance to explore the grounds and learn more about the different collections of plants. Another popular tour is the street art tour in one of Birmingham's most vibrant neighbourhoods, Digbeth. Check out Student Content Shaper Alice's Reel from the graffiti tour.
Campus 3K Your Way
What better way to get some fresh air than to take part in the Campus 3K. Hundreds of staff and students took the route - running, walking, wheeling, strolling - around our Edgbaston campus. Open to all abilities, the Campus 3K is one of the main events of UoB Xtra so don't miss out on booking your space. This year you can even paddle your way around campus, with a canoe ride along the canals.
Ten Talks
Inspired by TED-talks, our free ‘Ten Talks’ address some big questions, drawing on the research and experiences of leading University of Birmingham researchers and high-profile speakers. This year, students get to have a go too, leading their own Ten Talks session on a topic they are passionate about. Examples of last year's talks include:
- Does Character Matter in Leaders? Sir Anthony Seldon
- Is there a Theory of Everything? Prof. Marika Taylor
- How can we combat the threat of Infectious Diseases? Prof. Alan McNally
- Corporate Digital Responsibility - whose responsibility is it? Prof. Karen Elliot
Global Showcase
From Birmingham to Beijing, we celebrate our diverse global community on campus during UoB Xtra with a range of fun workshops, including Chinese and Korean calligraphy and a beginner's guide to henna. The Guild of Students host a Language Picnic, a chance for students to practice their language skills and meet new people. We also have some amazing performances from students and external groups including African drumming and carnival dancing.
UoB Postgraduate Research Festival
Our biggest celebration of postgraduate research at UoB. During the two-day festival, postgraduates have the opportunity to share their work with the wider University and beyond. Students can also enjoy talks from inspiring speakers as well as a range of workshops.
Events are being added to our plans for UoB Xtra 2026 - check out the What's On? page for the latest.