Birmingham is gearing up for an unforgettable ‘Super Weekend’ as it welcomes some of the biggest names in music and thousands of visitors. Among the early arrivals was legendary band Metallica, seen paying tribute to Black Sabbath at iconic city landmarks ahead of Ozzy Osbourne’s final concert.
James Hetfield, Metallica’s lead vocalist, posed for photos beside the Black Sabbath Bench featuring Ozzy Osbourne and Tony Iommi, while bassist Robert Trujillo admired the striking new mural on Navigation Street. The homage underscored the reverence held for Ozzy and his bandmates as they prepare for the ‘Back To The Beginning’ show on Saturday, July 5 at Villa Park Stadium, a reunion featuring Ozzy, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward.
Metallica joins a stellar lineup scheduled to perform at the Aston event, one of five major happenings during this packed weekend. Earlier in the week, Black Sabbath and their families were honoured with the Freedom of the City in a special ceremony, further cementing their legacy in their hometown. The band also signed the impressive mural created by local artist Mr Murals, adding a personal touch to the artwork.
READ MORE: Sarah Ferguson Declines King’s Invitation to Spare Prince Andrew’s Feelings
READ MORE: Live: Cotswolds A-Road Blocked by Crash
Birmingham’s Super Weekend isn’t just about music. The city simultaneously hosts the England vs. India cricket Test match at Edgbaston, a much-anticipated sports highlight running through to Sunday, July 6. At the Utilita Arena, Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra delivers their final performances on July 5 and 6, with the first show already sold out, adding a nostalgic footnote to the weekend.
Food lovers will also find plenty to enjoy at the Colmore Food Festival on July 4 and 5, where around 30,000 people are expected to indulge in dishes from some of Birmingham’s top venues, including Michelin-starred Adams. Together, these events make Birmingham the place to be this summer, celebrating music, sport, and culinary excellence in one unforgettable weekend.