Friday 13th has a bad reputation, but long before it was "unlucky for some", 13 was a sacred number
It's the number of moons in a lunar year, it's linked to the cycles of the body, and it has long been associated with the goddess and the divine feminine. So, when the UK's longest-running wellbeing festival opens its doors on Friday, 13 November in Birmingham, it's reclaiming the day for what it once was: a celebration of intuition, feminine wisdom and a little everyday magic.
The timing couldn't be more aligned. With Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman back on screen as the Owens sisters in Practical Magic 2, and #WitchTok full of moon rituals and kitchen spells, witchcraft is having a moment. This year, festivalgoers can go beyond the screen and meet best-selling author and WitchTok creator Lilly Statham in person, as she shares simple rituals and seasonal spells anyone can use.
It's a year of meaningful numbers for the festival
Now in its 11th year and taking place in the 11th month, with more than 111 free sessions, the festival also marks a master-number moment. In numerology, 11:11 signals spiritual awakening and alignment. So whether you've been seeing 11:11 on the clock or you've always had a soft spot for Friday the 13th, consider this your sign.
This year’s main stage is hosted by BBC West Midlands Presenter, Mollie Green, who will also be welcoming a powerful line-up of amazing speakers, including best-selling spiritual author Steve Taylor, who will bring cosmic love and the spirituality of Beatlemania to the NEC, and former X Factor finalist turned spiritual healer Matreya.
Other speakers include BBC Breakfast's Dr Helen Wall, who will be talking about ADHD and midlife; transformational strategist and author Poppy Delbridge, acclaimed Chinese medicine expert Katie Brindle; and Phill Webster, actor (appearing in Marvel's Doctor Strange and Bridgerton) turned intuitive life coach. And for the Practical Magic fans, the festival welcomes back WitchTok sensation Lilly Statham and bestselling author and psychic medium TJ Higgs, plus a whole new Enchanted Corner for your little ones curated by our own Queen of the Fairies Karen Kay.
Expect a packed programme of transformative talks, enlightening workshops, rejuvenating sound baths, immersive breathwork sessions, dancing, yoga and soul-nourishing ceremonies.
The Wellbeing Market is the go-to destination for thoughtful, conscious gifts where you can explore over 125 unique, ethically sourced brands: crystals, organic beauty and skincare, yoga and meditation essentials, lovingly crafted gifts from independent makers, and divine essential oils and aromatherapy tools. Before you leave, visit the Crystal Clear psychics for a reading on the year ahead, unwind with a therapeutic massage, and discover uplifting new music and sound healing products.
Event Highlights
The Mind Body Spirit Festival promises a multi-dimensional experience. Prepare to leave with your heart brimming and your mind illuminated.
Highlights include:
MAIN STAGE: A vibrant hub for performances, interactive demos, and inspiring talks from leading voices in spirituality, wellbeing, and personal growth.
WELLBEING STUDIO: Transformative classes led by world-renowned experts in meditation, movement, and life coaching. Suitable for all levels, from curious beginners to seasoned practitioners.
CRYSTAL CLEAR PSYCHICS: Profound insights and guidance from one of the UK’s top psychic circles.
NEW ENCHANTED CORNER: Mind Body Spirit's new magical space for your little ones. Introduce your little one to their own Mind Body Spirit connection through sensory storytelling, guided fairy meditation, mermaids and soothing sound. Every age has somewhere to play, create, and unwind. Hosted and curated by Karen Kay.
AURA READINGS: See and understand the energies that surround you, gaining new perspectives on your emotional and spiritual landscape.
ALCHEMY OF SOUND: Soothing sound baths and meditation sessions with renowned sound healer Anne Malone, designed to calm the nervous system and restore balance.
ASPECTS OF HEALING: Discover the transformative power of holistic healing, in partnership with the Confederation of Healing Organisations.
HAUS OF WISDOM: Deep conversations, workshops, and storytelling that honour the full spectrum of human experience.
BOOK SHOP: Meet some of your favourite authors, hear their stories, and get your books personally signed.
CEREMONY SPACE: Intimate ceremonies including mushroom tea rituals, cacao ceremonies, and other guided experiences designed to open the heart and deepen connection.
MIDLIFE WISDOM STAGE: Insights into women’s holistic health, menopause, and thriving after 50, with talks tailored for the midlife journey.
WELLBEING MARKET: Shop from over 125 independent vendors, indulge in therapeutic relaxation, and explore innovative wellness solutions to support your mind, body and spirit long after the festival ends.
Whether you are starting a new journey or deepening your path to wellness, the Birmingham Mind Body Spirit Festival offers an unforgettable experience.
If 11:11 has been finding you, this is your sign. Join us for a weekend that will ignite your spirit, expand your awareness, and transform your life.
Mind Body Spirit Festival Birmingham, National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Pendigo Way, Marston Green, Birmingham B40 1NT
Opening Times
Friday, 13 November 2026: 11:00 – 18:00
Saturday, 14 November 2026: 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday, 15 November 2026: 10:00 – 17:00
