Among the Christmas markets in Germany, the one located in Birmingham stands out as especially favoured. This article will provide insights into the origins of this fair, the entertainment options available to attendees, and the culinary delights on offer.
| Year of opening | 1997 (a trial mini-market with 10 stalls was opened), the fair acquired its modern format in 2001 |
| Main locations | Victoria Square and New Street |
| Format | food, drinks, stalls selling decorations and souvenirs, ice rink, attractions including a Ferris wheel, musical entertainment programme |
| Number of stalls | 80-100 |
| Admission | is free, with charges only for food, drinks, purchases and attractions |
| Dates | From 1 November to 24 December 2025 |
Background of Birmingham Christmas Market
The official title Birmingham Christmas Market closely resembles that of Frankfurt Christmas Market. This event is among the Christmas markets in the UK. The concept for its establishment originated from Kurt Stroescher, the festival and events director in Frankfurt. In 1997, a modest market featuring just 10 stalls was launched in Victoria Square. The initiative was a success, leading Birmingham City Council to decide to host the event annually. By 2001, the market had expanded to 24 stalls, and it is now regarded as one of the largest outdoor markets in Great Britain.
In 2020, the event was cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Activities and Attractions
The Birmingham Christmas Market welcomes all to experience live performances, savour traditional delicacies, and partake in shopping. The organisers have arranged an extensive entertainment schedule, which features:
- musical acts from Birmingham and various German cities;
- rides (gentle carousels and thrilling roller coasters);
- an ice skating rink;
- a large Ferris wheel providing stunning views of the city adorned for the festive season.
Every year, musicians take to the stage in Victoria Square, with local school and charity choirs performing concerts in the morning. Stalls sell handcrafted goods such as ornaments, wooden toys, ceramics, and apparel. Visitors can capture stunning photographs against the festive decorations.
Locations of the Birmingham Christmas Market
The primary market site is Victoria Square, adjacent to the Birmingham Town Hall / Council House. Here, a variety of Christmas stalls offer food and beverages.
The second key area is New Street, where the market extends along the city’s principal shopping thoroughfare. Many of the attractions and entertainment options are centred in Centenary Square, including the ice rink and Ferris wheel.
The fair will take place along New Street, beginning near the entrance to the Bullring & Grand Central shopping centre and progressing towards Victoria Square. This designated route is pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to explore the stalls, taste food and drinks, and appreciate the festive decorations.
Location Overview
The map illustrates the heart of the city, highlighting the primary shopping stalls and attractions situated in Victoria Square and along New Street. It also indicates the positions of the Ferris wheel and ice rink located in Centenary Square.
This map facilitates navigation around the transport stations and connections: the market is conveniently within walking distance from Birmingham New Street station.
Ways to reach the venue
There are several methods to arrive at Birmingham Christmas Market, situated in the city centre at the junction of Victoria Square and New Street.
By bus
Local and long-distance buses arrive at the city centre, with many routes running near the market. The nearest bus stops are Colmore Row and Corporation Street.
By car
You must reach the centre of Birmingham and then follow the directions to Victoria Square or New Street. There are multiple car parks located close to the market, including Town Hall Car Park, Snow Hill Car Park, and Bullring Parking.
By train
The nearest station to the market is Birmingham New Street, situated just a 3-minute walk away. Furthermore, Snow Hill and Moor Street stations are roughly a 10-minute stroll from the market.
By underground
Birmingham does not have a conventional underground system; however, it does feature a tram network – the West Midlands Metro light rail system, which links the city centre to its suburbs and other towns in the vicinity. The tram route traverses the central area of the city, stopping at Town Hall close to Victoria Square.
Visitor Information
Prior to attending the traditional German-style fair in Birmingham, it is advisable to verify its opening times:
Mon-Thu from 11:00 to 21:00
Fri. from 11:00 to 21:30
Sat. from 10:00 to 21:30
Sun. from 10:00 to 21:00
It is also advisable to plan your accommodation and parking arrangements in advance if you intend to drive.
Accommodation in the vicinity
There are several quality hotels situated close to the market:
- Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (New St Station). This hotel is conveniently positioned just 200-300 metres from the Christmas Market. If you book in advance, the price for a night’s stay at this hotel, which is near transport links, ranges from £50-60.
- Travelodge Birmingham Central Moor Street is among the most budget-friendly choices relatively near the centre, within a short walk to the market.
- Ibis Birmingham New Street Station is adjacent to New Street and the main thoroughfares, approximately 500-600 metres from the market. It offers excellent value for money, being more comfortable than a hostel yet reasonably priced.
- Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre is a 4-star establishment ideal for those wishing to remain in the heart of the city and minimise travel time to and from the market.
Each year, numerous visitors aim to experience the Christmas market in Birmingham, leading to a significant rise in hotel demand as the opening approaches. Therefore, it is advisable to secure accommodation in advance once you have finalised your visit dates for the festive occasion.
Cuisine at Birmingham Christmas Market
The Birmingham Christmas Market offers not just enjoyment, but also classic festive fare. Attendees can indulge in German Bratwurst sausages, typically served in a bun accompanied by sauces, onions, and mustard.
For those interested, there are sausages topped with curry sauce, alongside warm sweet and savoury pretzels that emit a delightful aroma. The festive offerings also feature a variety of buns and sandwiches, meat ‘steaks’, fried potatoes, and mushrooms served with garlic sauce.
A broad array of desserts will be available, including pancakes, mini pancakes, doughnuts, and roasted almonds. Sweet enthusiasts can savour seasonal treats such as gingerbread cookies and gingerbread.
The beverage selection will certainly feature mulled wine and various types of beer, including wheat beer. Hot chocolate will be available to provide warmth during the chilly weather.
Food and beverages play a vital role in enhancing the festive ambience, with the scents of spices and seasonings permeating the surroundings. Hot meals are ideal for keeping warm in the cold and contribute to a genuine winter holiday atmosphere on the streets.
Parking Facilities
The nearest car park to the Christmas market is Q-Park Victoria Square, situated beneath the shopping centre in the city centre. This facility offers charging points for electric vehicles and designated spaces for individuals with disabilities. Parking spots can be reserved in advance.
An alternative option is Quayside Tower Car Park, operated by JustPark, which is located a 5-10 minute stroll from the market on Victoria Square.
Digbeth Car Park is another viable choice — it is nearer to the Bullring (at the lower end of New Street), making it convenient for those approaching the market from that area. If preferred, you can leave your vehicle outside the centre and utilise public transport to reach the fair.
Entry Fees
Entry to the Christmas market is complimentary; however, food and entertainment require payment. The average cost for attraction tickets is between £7-8. A session at the ice rink, which includes skate rental, typically costs around £15.
Feedback
Alex:
We made our first visit to the Birmingham Christmas Market as a family – we travelled all the way from Dusseldorf. We had an amazing experience – we sampled German sausages, savoured the taste and scent of hot chocolate, skated at the ice rink, and took a ride on the Ferris wheel.
Jessi:
The ambiance at the Birmingham Christmas Market is magical. One day is insufficient to explore the fair, so plan for at least 2-3 days. There are roughly a hundred stalls at the market where you can find everything you could wish for, from decorations to keepsakes.
Common inquiries
What time does the Birmingham Christmas market close?
On Mondays through Thursdays and Sundays, the Christmas market remains open until 9 p.m., while on Fridays and Saturdays, it closes at 9:30 p.m.
What is the number of stalls at the Birmingham Christmas Market?
The Birmingham Christmas Market in 2025 is expected to feature a total of between 80 and 100 stalls.
What is the duration of the Birmingham Christmas Market’s opening?
The Birmingham Christmas Market will remain open until the evening of 24 December.
