Our Exclusive Guide to Christmas in Birmingham
Christmas in Birmingham is loved by many as the most magical time of year. Transforming the city into a cinnamon-scented, twinkling haven of fairy lights and star-topped Christmas trees, it stirs up timeless nostalgia and festive cheer in all generations. And, with alfresco markets, ice skating, Christmas shopping, carol concerts, pantos and much more, there’s an endless variety of things to see and do to savour the Christmas spirit.
Whether you're planning a one-off special event or a whole Christmas themed line-up during your festive escape, here’s our exclusive guide to Christmas in Birmingham.
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
From Friday 1st November to Christmas Eve on Tuesday 24th December 2024, the much-anticipated Frankfurt Christmas Market returns to Birmingham. The biggest German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria and one of the largest festivals of its kind in the UK, it has been running since 1997 and is a beloved date in the Christmas calendar. Wander through New Street, Victoria Square and Centenary Square to see hundreds of traditional wooden chalets lining the streets. From bratwurst and pretzels to baubles and presents, you are sure to find all things ‘Christmas’ amongst the eclectic array.
Christmas in Cathedral Square
First established in 2021, Christmas in Cathedral Square takes place in the grounds of the city’s Grade I listed cathedral and is a must-visit for merrymakers this Christmas in Birmingham. Hosting dozens of market stalls, it provides a sustainable platform for the region’s best independent traders and artisans. To find the perfect stocking fillers and presents to place under the tree, head over between Wednesday 13th November and Sunday 22nd December. Keeping you fuelled along the way are stalls selling Christmas foodie favourites, including roasted chestnuts and warming mulled wine.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ at Birmingham Moor Street Station
Hop aboard a vintage train for an unforgettable Christmas in Birmingham from 23rd November to 22nd December this year. Leaving from Moor Street Station, this magical train ride provides all generations with the chance to immerse in the sights and sounds of the popular children’s tale, THE POLAR EXPRESS™. As part of the experience, the train departs from the station on an express ride to see Santa in the ‘North Pole’, before delivering you safely back again. Expect an imaginative retelling of this classic tale, complete with live performance and delicious treats.
The Nutcracker at Birmingham Hippodrome
Fall under the spell of Birmingham Royal Ballet and their production of The Nutcracker this Christmas in Birmingham. An enchanting way to welcome in the Christmas season, this stunning performance features spectacular costumes, stunning sets, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia. With sword fights, snow, a 30ft Christmas tree and world-class dance, this enchanting staging of Sugar Plum Fairy and The Nutcracker is not to be missed. Performances are showing between 23rd November to 14th December and tickets should be booked in advance.
Winter Funland
Head inside from the chill and visit Winter Funland between 7th December 2024 and 1st January 2025. The largest indoor Christmas funfair in the UK, this festival is held at Birmingham NEC and promises something for all those young in years and young at heart. Gather up your favourite people and venture over to uncover more than 30 rides, a giant ice rink, circus shows, food and drink vendors and more. With something for everyone, activities and attractions include dodgems, waltzers, twister, acrobatics, clowns, elves and even a motorbike show.
Jewellery Quarter Christmas Lights
With more than a hundred jewellery themed Christmas lights flooding the streets of the Jewellery Quarter, there’s nowhere more illuminating to be this Christmas in Birmingham. Amongst the array, a giant Christmas bauble, two 30ft Christmas trees, and 25 festive window displays can be seen, making for the perfect backdrop for seasonal strolls and picturesque photographs. Kicking off celebrations is the quarter’s light switch on, held on Friday 15th November 2024. Running from 5pm until 7pm, the switch on promises a special guest, along with live music from The Dino Baptiste Boogie Woogie Trio and Elle-J Walters.
Christmas Shopping
Countless shopping opportunities await for stocking up on Christmas goodies for yourself and loved ones this Christmas in Birmingham. One of Birmingham's most famous shopping destinations, the Bullring & Grand Central is a paradise for festive shoppers. Home to over 200 stores, it offers everything from high-end fashion to unique gifts. Make sure you check out Selfridges here too, which transforms into a festive showstopper with elaborate Christmas displays. For luxury shopping, The Mailbox is the place to be, with designer boutiques, luxury brands, and elegant dining options. Meanwhile, all around the city, shops beckon in every shape and size for all your festive favourites.
Christmas at Westmead Hotel
To make your Christmas in Birmingham all the more magical, turn your attention to our family-run Westmead Hotel. Situated near Upper Bittell Reservoir and Lickey Hills Country Park, yet only 20 minutes from the city centre, we’re perfectly placed for Christmas breaks in Birmingham. Reserve one of our comfortable rooms and look forward to the most relaxing stay, complemented by the finest festive dining and afternoon teas. We’re even open on Christmas, so you can enjoy your day with everything taken care of.
To extend celebrations, why not take part in our spectacular casino themed New Year's Eve party? For a night you can bet on, we’re inviting guests to enjoy a glamorous celebration for the most magical start to 2025. Enjoy traditional games, dance the night away, and savour a three-course dinner curated by our inhouse chefs.