As the final weekend before Christmas 2025 approaches, Birmingham is buzzing with an array of festive activities designed to delight visitors and locals alike. Whether you're seeking traditional market charm, family-friendly entertainment, or sparkling seasonal displays, the city offers a packed schedule to get everyone in the holiday spirit.
Festive Markets and Outdoor Delights
The centrepiece of Birmingham's Christmas celebrations remains the renowned Frankfurt Christmas Market. Recognised as one of Europe's largest and most atmospheric, it offers a classic German market experience right in the heart of the city. Visitors can browse stalls selling unique gifts, enjoy live music, and indulge in seasonal food and drinks. The market will be open for business right through until 24 December 2025.
For those looking for more artisanal offerings, the Christmas in Cathedral Square Craft Market near Colmore Row provides a charming, smaller-scale alternative. It's an excellent spot to find locally made festive gifts and treats. Meanwhile, Centenary Square invites you to lace up your skates for Ice Skate Birmingham, with the chance to warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate at the adjoining Ice Lounge.
As dusk falls, head to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens for Luminate – Winter Light Trail. This dazzling illuminated walk transforms the gardens into a magical evening spectacle, perfect for a festive stroll.
Shows, Concerts and Family Entertainment
The city's cultural venues are alive with the sound of music and laughter this weekend. Symphony Hall and other performance spaces will host a selection of Christmas concerts and carols, featuring orchestras and choirs. It's advised to check specific dates and ticket availability for these events.
No British Christmas is complete without a pantomime, and Birmingham delivers with seasonal productions like Robin Hood at venues including the Birmingham Hippodrome. For a magical theatrical experience for younger audiences, The Owl Who Came for Christmas continues its run at the Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) throughout December.
Film lovers can enjoy a special screening of the classic The Snowman, accompanied by a live orchestra performing the iconic score around mid-December. Check local listings for exact times and locations.
If you need a break from the sentimental side of the season, The Glee Club is hosting festive-themed comedy nights throughout the month, offering a dose of laughter.
Shopping, Dining and Seasonal Pop-Ups
Shoppers will find plenty to enjoy at the Bullring & Grand Central, with their impressive Christmas displays, extensive retail options, and plentiful food courts. For a more independent shopping experience, consider exploring the indie shops, cafés, and art spaces in the Digbeth area or the Jewellery Quarter.
The Broad Street & Arcadian area is the go-to destination for dining and drinks, with many restaurants and bars offering special holiday menus for a festive dinner or celebratory tipple. Seasonal pop-ups are also in full swing, such as the Gingerbread Christmas Bar at the Bullring, which serves festive drinks, snacks, and live music.
For a dose of culture, you can visit the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, which offers free general entry and may have seasonal performances or exhibitions. It's always worth checking what's on.
Ideas for a Festive Day Trip
If you're willing to venture slightly beyond the city centre for a short day trip, several nearby attractions are running special Christmas events from mid-to-late December. These include Drayton Manor Christmas Wonderland and The Last Letter to Santa experience at Dudley Canal & Caverns.
With such a diverse and exciting line-up, Birmingham firmly establishes itself as a premier destination for festive fun in the UK during the weekend before Christmas 2025.
