London may get all the attention, but Birmingham knows how to do Christmas right. With highlights like the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and the Jewellery Quarter, this city is packed with character. Plus, you can’t miss the Balti Triangle – home to the curry that put Birmingham on the map.
The Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market is the biggest authentic market outside Germany and it’s always buzzing with energy and great stalls. But the festive fun doesn’t stop there. From stunning light displays to lively performances, Birmingham is all about Christmas cheer.
So, bundle up and get ready to explore 23 activities that will make your holiday season shine!
1. Birmingham Christmas Markets
COST: Free entry (budget for shopping and food)
TIME: Daily 10am-9pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Kick off the season at the Birmingham Christmas Markets, featuring over 80 stalls of bratwurst, mulled wine and unique crafts. Enjoy the giant Christmas tree and the festive atmosphere that’s sure to lift your holiday spirit. For more details, read this detailed guide, including how to get there and where to stay.
2. Afternoon Tea at The Edwardian Tea Rooms
COST: £30-£35 per person
TIME: Daily 12pm-5pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea with a Christmas twist at The Edwardian Tea Rooms. It’s the perfect mix of festive treats and elegance. Sip on tea while enjoying delicate sandwiches, scones, and seasonal pastries in a charming setting.
3. Shopping at Bullring & Grand Central
COST: Free
TIME: Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm | Sunday 11am-5pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Score some great holiday deals and shop for unique gifts at the Bullring & Grand Central. The festive decorations add a touch of Christmas magic to your shopping spree. With a wide range of shops and festive treats, it’s a shopping paradise.
4. Explore the Library of Birmingham
COST: Free entry
TIME: Monday-Saturday from 10am to 6pm | Sunday from 11 am to 5pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Check out the festive displays and exhibitions at the Library of Birmingham. It’s a cosy indoor option when you need a break from the cold. The library’s modern architecture and seasonal decorations make for a delightful visit.
5. Light Trail At Birmingham Botanical Gardens
COST: £15 for adults, £10 for children
TIME: Daily 10am-4pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the stunning Luminate Christmas Light Trail. Picture trees glowing with festive lights and trails twinkling all around you – it’s like stepping into a fairy tale. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for an evening wander, whether you’re looking to relax or just soak up some winter magic.
6. Visit the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
COST: Free
TIME: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm | Sunday 12pm-5pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: See the Christmas exhibitions and enjoy the museum’s rich history and art collections. It’s both educational and enchanting, with beautifully decorated galleries and fascinating exhibits that capture the spirit of the season.
7. Take a Winter Stroll Through Lickey Hills
COST: Free
TIME: Daytime
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Enjoy a winter walk at Lickey Hills, where rolling hills and wooded trails offer a peaceful escape. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a brisk hike, the crisp air and stunning views create a magical atmosphere for a refreshing outdoor adventure.
8. Christmas Concerts at Symphony Hall
COST: £15-£50
TIME: Various times, typically in the evening
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Get into the holiday spirit with a Christmas concert at Symphony Hall. Whether it’s carols or classical music, the acoustics and atmosphere are top-notch. The hall’s grandeur enhances the magical experience of a live Christmas performance.
9. Visit the Black Country Living Museum
COST: £20 adults, £15 children
TIME: Daily 10am-4pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Step back in time at this open-air museum and see how Christmas was celebrated in the past. It’s a fascinating way to experience festive traditions from yesteryear. The historic buildings and actors in period costumes bring the past to life in a charming way.
10. Ice Skating at Centenary Square
COST: £10-£15
TIME: Daily 10am-10pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Grab your skates and glide around the ice rink in Centenary Square. Perfect for families or a fun date night, this rink offers breathtaking views of the city’s Christmas lights. It’s a winter wonderland where you can twirl and skate to your heart’s content.
11. Have a Snowy Christmas at Tamworth SnowDome
COST: £20-£30 (family tickets available)
TIME: Daily in November and December 9am-8pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Experience a winter wonderland at Tamworth SnowDome, complete with indoor snow for sledging and tubing. Meet Santa in his village, explore a snow trail, enjoy Christmas shows, and see real reindeer. It’s the perfect festive day for families or anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
12. Explore the Winter Wonderland Funland at Birmingham NEC
COST: £20-£30
TIME: Daily from mid-December 10am-6pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Winter Funland at the NEC is an indoor festive extravaganza perfect for the whole family. Enjoy fairground rides, a giant ice rink and circus performances, all under one roof. With plenty of food stalls and Santa’s Grotto, it’s the ultimate Christmas day out, especially when the weather’s cold and unpredictable.
13. Christmas Movie Night at the Mockingbird Cinema
COST: £8-£12
TIME: Various times, typically in the evening
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Catch a classic Christmas film or a new release at the Mockingbird Cinema. Their comfy seats and great selection of snacks make for a perfect movie night. The intimate setting adds a touch of charm to your cinematic experience.
14. Christmas Wonderland at Drayton Manor
COST: £30-£40 (children under 2 free)
TIME: Selected dates in November and December 10:30am-5pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Bring the family to Drayton Manor’s Thomas Land for a festive adventure! Kids can meet Father Christmas, enjoy holiday-themed rides, and see Thomas and his friends all dressed up for the season. With an enchanting grotto, festive shows, and guaranteed snowfall, it’s a fun-filled day that perfectly blends Christmas spirit with thrilling rides—ideal for creating magical family memories.
15. Experience the Enchanted Christmas Kingdom at Hatton Adventure World
COST: £20-£30
TIME: Selected dates in December, 10am-5pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Hatton’s Enchanted Christmas Kingdom is a family-friendly wonderland! Meet Father Christmas in his grotto, explore a magical winter barn, and enjoy festive entertainment like puppet shows and crafts. Don’t miss the real reindeer visit! This charming day out combines farm fun with Christmas magic.
16. Celebrate the Season with a Festive Ride on Severn Valley Railway
COST: Ticket prices vary, advance booking recommended
TIME: Check Severn Valley Railway’s schedule for specific dates and times
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Take a festive ride on the Severn Valley Railway! This charming steam train journey whisks you through scenic countryside adorned for the holidays. Perfect for families and rail lovers, enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and festive treats on board. It’s a magical way to celebrate Christmas and create lasting memories with loved ones.
17. Discover the Magic of Christmas at Warwick Castle
COST: Ticket prices vary, advance booking recommended
TIME: Check Warwick Castle’s schedule for specific dates and times
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Experience a fairy-tale Christmas at Warwick Castle! Wander through the stunning grounds lit up with twinkling lights and seasonal decor. Enjoy festive performances, meet Santa in his grotto, and savor seasonal treats. With its historic charm and magical atmosphere, it’s the perfect holiday outing for the whole family.
18.Visit Santa’s Grotto at The Bullring
COST: £8-£12 per child (includes a gift)
TIME: Daily from late November to Christmas Eve, 10am-6pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Visit Santa’s Grotto at the Bullring in Birmingham for a magical experience! Kids can meet Santa, share their wishes, and receive a special gift amidst festive decorations and twinkling lights. It’s a memorable stop that adds a touch of holiday spirit to your Christmas shoppin.
19. Discover the Magic of Birmingham Cathedral Gardens’ Christmas Market
COST: Free (budget for shopping and food)
TIME: Weekends 10am-4pm
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Embrace the festive spirit at Birmingham Cathedral Gardens’ Christmas Market! This charming spot is perfect for finding unique gifts and enjoying seasonal treats. With twinkling lights and artisanal stalls set against the stunning Cathedral backdrop, it’s an ideal destination for a delightful day out and holiday shopping.
20. Watch Peter Pan Panto at the Birmingham Hippodrome
COST: £20-£80 per ticket
TIME: Various shows from Saturday 21st December-Sunday 2nd February
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Get into the holiday spirit with a family-friendly panto! The Birmingham Hippodrome hosts a spectacular show every year, blending slapstick humor with catchy tunes. This year, don’t miss Peter Pan, featuring the beloved Matt Slack. It’s a Christmas tradition that delights kids and adults alike!
21. Warm Up at a Festive Pub Crawl
COST: Budget for drinks and food
TIME: Various times, typically in the evening
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT:Experience Birmingham’s vibrant pub scene with a festive pub crawl. It’s a great way to enjoy holiday drinks and lively company. Hit up a few of the city’s best pubs and enjoy the festive cheer.
22. Step Aboard The Polar Express with Vintage Trains
COST: Ticket prices vary, advance booking essential
TIME: Check Vintage Trains’ schedule for dates and times
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Step into the magic of Christmas with THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride from Vintage Trains! Experience the beloved film come to life on this festive journey filled with sights and sounds. It’s a perfect family outing that creates unforgettable holiday memories. Don’t miss this enchanting adventure!
23. Embark on a Magical Santa Safari at West Midlands Safari Park
COST: Ticket prices vary, advance booking recommended
TIME: Check West Midlands Safari Park’s schedule for specific dates and times
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Experience the magic of Christmas at the Santa Safari in West Midlands Safari Park! Drive through stunning lights, meet Santa and his reindeer, enjoy festive treats, and join holiday activities. A perfect family adventure to create cherished memories!
So there you have it, 23 festive things to do in Birmingham. If you’re looking for places to stay in Birmingham, check out my Christmas market guide.
