birmingham christmas markets 2023

Last updated Oct 09, 2023

Blazing the trail for cities all over the UK, the first Frankfurt Christmas market arrived in Birmingham in 1997. A collaboration between the partner cities of Birmingham and Frankfurt, the market had a humble beginning with just 10 stalls. It was 2001 before the market returned to Birmingham, this time bringing 24 stalls and becoming an annual event.

Since then, the Frankfurt Christmas market has continued to grow in both size and popularity. City professionals pop out on their lunch break to sample German delicacies such as the traditional and highly popular bratwurst. Local sellers provide mulled cider and hot chocolate, alongside Frankfurt traders offering gluhwein and weissbier.

Festive accommodation in Birmingham fills up faster than the Christmas markets! So don’t miss out — book your stay with us today!

frankfurt christmas market and christmas craft market

Strolling through a vibrant city centre, the first thing that hits you is the scent. A combination of roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate, mulled wine and festive food. Wander around the pretty, wooden shacks to your favourite stall. Pick up Christmas gifts or just enjoy a beer at the pop-up bar. Live music adds to the atmosphere and even Scrooge himself would struggle not to succumb to the holiday cheer.

The largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria, Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market signals the beginning of the festive season within the city. Weekends and evenings get increasingly busy in December so try to visit earlier in the day if you prefer to avoid the crowds.

When: From 2nd November to 24th December 2023 Where: City Centre What time: Weekdays 11am - 9pm, Weekends 10am - 9pm Also known as: German Christmas Market Official Website: www.germanchristmasmarketbirmingham.com

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ice skate birmingham

Back by popular demand, Ice Skate Birmingham returns to the city centre this year with a temporary ice rink. The rink is undercover with the Ice Lounge café serving hot beverages, mulled wine and cider along with snacks and winter food favourites. There’s a viewing lounge for anyone who wants to watch the action. Situated in the heart of Birmingham City Centre at Centenary Square, the location couldn't be more festive.

When: From 2nd November 2023 to 7th January 2024 Where: Centenary Square What time: 10am to 10pm Official Website: Ice Skating Rink | Things To Do In Birmingham | Ice Skate Birmingham

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the festive gift fair

Not to be outdone by the city centre, NEC Birmingham hosts the Festive Gift Fair. In its 26th year, the fair has a dedicated following. With its indoor venue, this is the ideal place to start shopping whilst staying out of the unpredictable November weather. There’s even a present crèche where exhausted shoppers can leave their gifts and free up their hands for more purchases.

While gifts may be the focus, there’s plenty of other activities going on. Christmas characters and live music entertain visitors every day, whilst their food and drink zone has 40 stalls of artisan goodies. Most of them let you try before you buy, but save room for refreshments from the food court.

Check the website for regular updates and offers from some of the 325 stallholders in attendance. Many offer discounts to gift fair visitors that won’t be available elsewhere. Parking can be paid for in advance and the NEC can also be reached by public transport. NOTE: Tickets must be pre-booked online from the website (Adults £7-£10, Children £5).

When: 16th to 19th November 2023 Where: NEC Birmingham What time: 9.30am to 5pm daily Official website: www.festivegiftfair.co.uk