May Bank Holiday - What to do

Walsall Wood Stock: Monday May 27

After a successful year in 2012 Walsall Wood Stock is back and a lot bigger. The day is packed with live music and entertainment at the Horse and Jockey, Walsall Wood. The first band takes to the stage at 12pm with artists playing until 10pm. Visit www.kerrangradio.co.uk for more information.

Solihull Jazz and Blues Festival: Friday May 24 - Monday May 25

Solihull is jumping and jiving with this yearly festival becoming a firm fixture on the jazz and blues circuit. There will be two outdoor stages in Mell Square and Jubilee Gardens with four days of free performances by over 26 different bands and performers.

There are also two ticketed events at the arts complex including acts such as King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys, Val Wiseman Combo, Tipitina and Roy Forbes with The Brian Dee Trio. For more information visit www.solihullfestivals.co.uk/jazzblues

Midlands Slam Dunk Festival: Monday May 27

The brand new Midlands leg of the Slam Dunk Festival hosted at Wolverhampton's Civic Hall prepare to be bombarded with pop punk, ska and emo artists including All Time Low, Cancer Bats, Kids in Glass Houses and Tonight Alive and loads more. With the North tickets sold out it's only a matter of time before the South and Midlands ones do also, with tickets starting £34 or £38 with aftershow. See www.slamdunkmusic.com for more details.

Caldmore Village Festival: Saturday May 25 – Monday May 27

Held in Palfrey Park, Caldmore, in the multi-cultural area on the edge of Walsall's town centre - the festival offers a range of participatory activities throughout the three days. with some running through the year. With all manner of singing, dancing, jollification and merriment, expect bands, musicians, singers, dancers, entertainers, food, displays, exhibitions, refreshments, demonstrations and more. Look at caldmorevillagefestival.wordpress.com for more information.

An Extraordinary day in the life of Moseley Old Hall: Saturday May 25 – Wednesday May 29

Be thrown into the adventure of 1651 at Moseley Old Hall. Protecting the future of the King of England, Charles Stuart, is important as soldiers are coming and there's a fugitive in the building. The story delves into the story of a young man fearing for his life and hiding out in what seemed an ordinary home. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/moseley-old-hall.

Birmingham Pride: Saturday May 25 and Sunday May 26

Pride is one of the biggest LGBT festivals in the country and hosts a number of big acts taking to the main stage this year including JLS, Paloma Faith, Bananarama, Stooshe, Misha B and much more.

The Carnival Parade kicks off at 12 noon on the Saturday from Victoria Square. Some of the events do require an entry ticket but the community village green at the bottom of Hurst Street remains free. The green is packed with activities including a dog show, village games and performers. Visit www.birminghampride.com for more information.

Churnet Valley Railway: Children's Fun Special, Sunday May 26 – Monday May 27

Meet everyone's favourite characters Wallace & Gromit. They have taken a detour on their cheese trail to pay a visit to Churnet Valley to see their fans and sniff out the Churnet's cheese selection. There are a number of chances to meet them throughout the day as well as ride on the ten and half mile return journey along the valley. See www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk for more details.

Newhampton Vintage Bazaar: Sunday May 26 – Monday May 27

This bank holiday vintage weekend extravaganza is packed with vintage clothes and accessories, arts and crafts and workshops and classes to entertain all ages.

Not far from the heart of Wolverhampton, Newhampton Arts Centre is only charging £1 admission with traditional tea and cakes available too - what more can they pack into a retro rummage. Check out www.newhamptonarts.co.uk for more information.

The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery: Saturday May 25

Ever wanted to be an Anglo Saxon or a Warlord? Why not pop down to The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery in Stoke-on-Trent. Experience Anglo-Saxon life with activities from a typical village of the period including cooking, weaving and children's games, or join in the Dark Age war-games battle as Vikings fight the Anglo-Saxons.

Using beautifully painted figures, dice and cunning see if you can become a Warlord. Both events are free. Have a look at www.stokemuseums.org.uk for more details.

Harry Jones Funfair, Pelsall Common: Friday May 24 – Tuesday May 28 (not operating on Sunday May 26)

The funfair is coming to Pelsall Common, Walsall. With an array of traditional rides for all ages including bumper cars, the waltzers, hysteria, bouncy castles and amusements you're sure to find something to thrill you. See www.jonesleisure.co.uk for more information.