Birmingham is set to go loopy over Snoopy this summer with a new free family trail to keep kids occupied when schools break up.
Central BID Birmingham has funded and created the Snoopy in Birmingham public art trail of 12 adorable sculptures in collaboration with Peanuts and art producer Wild in Art. It will also raise money for Midlands-based Acorns Children’s Hospice.
The Snoopy trail launches in Birmingham city centre on Thursday(July 9) and runs until Tuesday September 1.
Fans of the popular cartoon beagle, created by Charles M Schulz, will find him lying on various brightly painted doghouses, designed by a dozen local artists.
Printed maps and digital versions to download will be available to help fans go walkies to sites from Birmingham Town Hall to beautiful Piccadilly Arcade.
There are also fun quizzes to do on the maps to keep young minds active. The trail comes soon after the 75th anniversary of Snoopy first appearing in Peanuts comic strip as Charlie Brown’s pet.
Snoopy sculptures are dotted across central Birmingham in the following locations:
New Street Station, Great Western Arcade, Piccadilly Arcade, Grand Central, Bullring, Selfridges, Burlington Arcade, John Bright Street, Mailbox, Birmingham Town Hall, Corporation Street and Staybridge Suites.
This is the latest sculpture trail by Central BID Birmingham – the business improvement district in the city centre – after the success of attractions including the annual Reindeer Trail at Christmas and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.
Sam Watson, Chair of Central BID Birmingham, said: “It’s wonderful to bring the Snoopy trail to Birmingham as he’s such a well-loved and world-renowned character with a special place in many people’s hearts.
“These free sculpture trails are a great way for families and other visitors to explore central Birmingham and see all that it has to offer.”
An Acorns Children’s Hospice spokesperson said: “We’re delighted to be working with Central BID Birmingham on the Snoopy’s Summer Trail.
“Partnerships like this bring communities together in a fun and engaging way, while also helping to raise awareness of the vital care Acorns Children’s Hospice provides to local children and families. We hope the trail encourages people to explore the city, enjoy everything Birmingham has to offer and, if they can, support Acorns along the way.”
Acorns Children’s Hospice offers network of specialist palliative nursing care and support for local children and their families in its hospice, community and at home.
Money raised will support its services including clinically-supported stays for children at its hospices, therapeutic and psychosocial support, support for siblings and other family members, emergency and end of life care and bereavement support.
Find out more and download maps from the Central BID website from Thursday July 9 at https://www.centralbid.co.uk/