Must Visit Christmas Markets in Birmingham
There’s a festive feeling in the air, and you can’t escape Christmas music… It can only mean one thing: it’s Christmas market time!
Whether you’re keen to enjoy some mulled wine or fancy a hot chocolate, xmas markets are the place to be once December arrives. Luckily, Birmingham has plenty of options, including the iconic Frankfurt Christmas Market — the best way to enjoy traditional German cheer without booking a flight.
We’ve researched for you so you can maximise your time in the city. Scroll down for the complete list of Christmas markets in Birmingham and a few cosy restaurants to visit to ensure you have a jolly old experience.
The Best Christmas Markets in Birmingham
Grab your Santa hat and put on your thermals. Here are the best Christmas markets in Birmingham.
1. Frankfurt Christmas Market
When it comes to the best Christmas markets in Birmingham, the Frankfurt Christmas Market is always a top contender.
Not only does the market resemble a classic German Weihnachtsmarkt, but it’s also one of the largest outside of Germany and Austria. You’ll be exploring these festive stalls for hours.
This market has been gracing the city streets since 1997 and is named for Birmingham’s twin city. Expect plenty of mulled wine, German lager, schnitzel, sweet treats, wooden toys, and traditional crafts.
There will also be a big wheel and an iconic Ice Lounge and Bar. Bring your winter coat for the latter!
The market will open on November 2nd and continue until Christmas Eve.
2. Christmas in Cathedral Square
The Birmingham Cathedral Market is a smaller affair than the Frankfurt Market, but don’t let that sway your planning.
There’s nothing like a piping hot drink next to one of the most beautiful buildings in the city, especially when it’s set to the soundtrack of Christmas music and carol singers.
Christmas in Cathedral Square will run from November 15th to December 17th and open at 11 am daily.
Don’t miss the exciting Christmas light switch-on event on November 15th! Bring your friends and family to celebrate the start of the season.
Other market highlights include fine wines, craft beer, homemade crafts and gifts, and delicious food.
3. Winter Funland
Traditionally, Christmas markets are focused on food stalls and crafts rather than funfair rides. But what’s a celebration without waltzers and dodgems?
Winter Funland should be on your seasonal bucket list if you crave Christmas music and adrenaline.
This event offers ice skating, funfair rides, festive food, and mulled wine. Little ones can even visit the big man himself in Santa’s Grotto.
Hate the cold? We get it—and so does Winter Funland. This unique market is held inside the Birmingham NEC, meaning you can have fun even if it’s raining.
Winter Funland will be in town from December 9th to January 1st.
Cosy Restaurants For Your Christmas Day Out
Want to warm your hands after the Christmas markets in Birmingham? We’ve selected a few cosy restaurants with Christmas menus and hearty fare to compliment your seasonal celebrations.
1. Cafe Lovelife
Roast dinners and Christmas celebrations go hand in hand. So, if you want to elevate your market experience, pair it with a proper roast!
Cafe LoveLife is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant only a 10-minute drive from the city centre. Here, you can enjoy Sunday roasts with all the trimmings. A perfect starter before you visit the Christmas markets.
Or if you’re looking for somewhere to eat after the markets, Lovelife’s evening tapas menu will transport you to the Mediterranean to warm you up. Don’t forget to peruse the never-ending cocktail, wine, and draught beer menu to keep the good vibes flowing!
2. The Botanist
The Botanist is a go-to in Birmingham for sophisticated cocktails and creative plates, and their Christmas menu lives up to this reputation.
The three-course Christmas menu is available from 20th November to 24th December and offers plenty of xmas favourites.
From a festive vegan pie to the famous turkey hanging kebab, all diners and diets are included.
3. Browns Birmingham
If you’re looking for a traditional roast dinner that doesn’t hold back on Yorkies or roasties, add Browns Birmingham to your calendar.
This eatery offers an extensive Christmas menu, festive cocktails, and indulgent afternoon teas. No matter your style, you’ll find a classic Christmas option to pair with a day at the markets.
Just remember to book ahead to save your space.
Making The Most Of The Christmas Markets in Birmingham
The Christmas markets are a once-a-year delight, so don’t miss your chance to experience them!
Be sure to schedule a visit to each one, and while you're at it, indulge in the city's best roast dinners and festive holiday menus.
Tis the season. Check out the best Christmas dinner restaurants in Birmingham to learn more.