More than 8,000 people descended upon the University of Birmingham's campus this week for a spectacular dual celebration, marking the institution's 125th anniversary and officially launching the festive season.
A Historic Canvas Illuminated
The Edwardian heart of the campus, Chancellors Court, was packed with visitors who gathered to witness a breathtaking lightshow. The iconic Aston Webb building served as a dynamic canvas for the display, which vividly depicted the University's profound impact on research and education over the past century and a quarter.
The event was formally opened by the Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Derrick Anderson CBE, who switched on the Christmas lights. He was joined by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE, underscoring the University's deep ties to the city.
Professor Adam Tickell, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Birmingham, said: "It was fabulous to welcome so many visitors from across the city for this stunning and historic experience. This event beautifully concludes a momentous year in our history, celebrating the brilliant people whose vision continues to improve lives in Birmingham and around the globe."
125 Years of World-Changing Impact
The animated graphics projected onto the Aston Webb building narrated the University's storied journey. It began with Joseph Chamberlain's pioneering vision for Britain's first civic university and highlighted a legacy that includes 10 Nobel laureates and two former British Prime Ministers among its staff and graduates.
This dedication to groundbreaking discovery and high-quality teaching has cemented Birmingham's place among the world's top 100 universities. As a leading Russell Group institution and a founding member of Universitas 21, it has spent 125 years driving innovation and transforming society.
Festive Fun for All Ages
Beyond the lightshow, the 'Christmas on Campus: 125 edition' offered a host of activities to kickstart the yuletide season. Families enjoyed an artisan market, a Christmas Craft Fair, a funfair carousel, and fairground games. The atmosphere was enlivened by live music, Christmas stilt walkers, and festive elves.
The day also blended seasonal cheer with academic insight through 'Claus for Thought' talks. These 10-minute sessions featured leading academics like Professor Deborah Longworth, who explored Christmas murder mysteries, and Professor Richard Butler, who delved into dinosaur life on the Jurassic highway.
Other attractions included guided tours of the 'Largely in Your Hands' exhibition, which explores the personal stories behind the University's history, and screenings of festive movies for families.
The celebration highlighted the University's role as a global institution with proud roots in one of the UK's most dynamic cities. Its research-intensive work generates billions for the UK economy, while its commitment to net zero and the UN Sustainable Development Goals points to a bold, future-focused ambition. The event proved that, 125 years on, the University of Birmingham continues to illuminate minds and change the way the world works.
