Christmas is a brilliant time to spend a weekend in Birmingham. From the return of the famous Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market and festive activities to Christmas shopping, new restaurant openings and plenty of evening entertainment, there's lots to fill a couple of days.

Whether you're planning a festive getaway with friends, a Christmas shopping trip or a weekend away with a bit of everything, here's how to make the most of Christmas in Birmingham.

Friday evening: Arrive, check in and head out for dinner

Start your weekend by checking into one of Birmingham's many city-centre hotels. Staying overnight means you can make the most of the evening, enjoy a few drinks and fit plenty into the following day without rushing.

Once you've settled in, head out for dinner. Birmingham has a fantastic choice of restaurants, so there's no shortage of places to start your weekend.

For an Italian evening, San Carlo on Temple Street is a long-standing favourite, serving regional Italian dishes, fresh pasta and seafood in a lively setting.

If you're keen to try somewhere new, Sticks'n'Sushi in Chamberlain Square and KIBOU on Temple Row are two recent additions to Birmingham's restaurant scene, both bringing Japanese-inspired menus to the city. From sushi and sashimi to ramen and grilled dishes, they're great options for a meal with friends or a date night.

For something a little more cosy, Flat Iron on Temple Street serves its signature steak alongside a selection of sides, while Blacklock is another option for those looking to enjoy quality chops, steaks and Sunday roasts. 

After dinner, make your way to one of the city's cocktail bars or enjoy a drink around Colmore Row or Brindleyplace before heading back to your hotel.

Saturday morning: Explore Birmingham's Christmas markets

Start Saturday with a wander around Birmingham's festive markets. Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market returns to Victoria Square and New Street from 5 November to 24 December 2026, bringing traditional wooden stalls, German food and drink, handmade gifts and live entertainment into the heart of the city.

Pick up a bratwurst, warm pretzel or mug of glühwein as you browse the stalls, or take your time looking for Christmas decorations and gifts to take home. With live music adding to the atmosphere, it's a great way to spend a morning or ease into the day.

Just a short walk away, Christmas in Cathedral Square offers a slightly different shopping experience. With more than 60 independent traders selling handmade crafts, gifts and seasonal treats, it's a good opportunity to pick up something a little different from the usual high-street presents. This year, you'll also find the returning Helter Skelter and a small Ferris wheel.

If you're visiting with children, the traditional stalls, sweet treats and fairground rides make this a lovely part of the day for the whole family.

Saturday afternoon: Choose your kind of Christmas experience

Once you've explored the markets, there's plenty more to fill your afternoon. Depending on who you're travelling with, here are a few ways to make the most of your visit.

For experience seekers and groups of friends

If you'd rather do something a little different from the usual Christmas activities, Birmingham has plenty of experiences to get involved in.

Head to F1® Arcade in Paradise Birmingham and get behind the wheel of a racing simulator. Challenge your friends to a race, see who can set the fastest lap and enjoy food and cocktails alongside the action. It's a great option for groups looking to add a bit of friendly competition to their weekend.

Alternatively, TOCA Social at Bullring brings together interactive football games, food and drinks. Take on your friends in a series of digital football challenges before settling in for something to eat. Whether you're a football fan or simply looking for a fun group activity, it's a good way to spend an afternoon.

Both are worth booking ahead, particularly if you're visiting over a busy December weekend.

For families

If you're visiting Birmingham with children, make some time for the festive attractions around Centenary Square.

Ice Skate Birmingham returns from 5 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, giving families the chance to get out on the ice together. Whether it's little ones trying their first skating session or older children showing off their skills, it's a fun way to spend an afternoon.

For those who'd rather stay on dry land, take a ride on the big wheel and enjoy views across Birmingham's rooftops and Christmas lights. See more information on the two here.

For couples

If you're visiting Birmingham as a couple, make the most of having some time away together.

Spend the afternoon browsing the Christmas markets, pick up a few gifts and enjoy a hot drink before heading out to explore more of the city.

For something special, book tickets for The Nutcracker at Birmingham Hippodrome. Running from 20 November to 12 December, Birmingham Royal Ballet's production is a lovely choice for a festive date, with its beautiful costumes, music and winter scenes.

Food for everyone

For an evening out, there are plenty of ways to make a night of it. Book a table at Txikiteo in the Jewellery Quarter for Spanish small plates, or head to Digbeth for tapas at Rico Libre or a tasting menu at 670 Grams. Why not try Fat Hippo or Rudy's Pizza on Bennetts Hill for some yummy flavours!

 

Saturday evening: Make a night of it

As the evening draws in, head back towards the Christmas markets to see the stalls and festive lights after dark. Enjoy a drink, listen to the live music and soak up the atmosphere before heading out for dinner or drinks.

If you're planning a party weekend with friends, there's plenty happening across Birmingham's nightlife scene too.

Coming to Birmingham for a festive party weekend? Don't miss Little Black Dress - Winter Edition on Saturday 14 November 2026. The event promises an evening of music, entertainment and celebrations, making it a great excuse to get dressed up, gather your friends and make a full weekend of it.

Find out more and check ticket availability at Little Black Dress.

For another evening option, there are plenty of ways to enjoy some entertainment during your stay. Downstairs at The Grand hosts evenings of cabaret and live music, with food and cocktails included in some of its shows. If you'd rather explore Digbeth, pair dinner in the Custard Factory with a film at the Mockingbird Cinema, an independent venue showing everything from new releases to cult classics and special screenings.

Birmingham's theatres and concert venues also have plenty of seasonal performances throughout November and December. The CBSO Christmas Party at Symphony Hall on 17 December is a great choice for music lovers, while Home Alone in Concert on 23 December offers the chance to enjoy the much-loved Christmas film accompanied by a live orchestra.

Sunday morning: Enjoy a slower start

After a busy Saturday, take Sunday at your own pace.

Birmingham has plenty of brunch spots and independent cafés where you can enjoy a slower morning before heading out for a final wander around the city.

If you haven't finished your Christmas shopping, head back to Bullring and Grand Central, where you'll find more than 200 shops, including Selfridges. Alternatively, explore the independent retailers in Great Western Arcade or head to The Mailbox for designer shopping, restaurants and waterside views.

Finally, if you have a little longer before heading home, make time for the Jewellery Quarter. Explore its historic streets, browse independent jewellers and visit the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, where you can step inside a preserved jewellery workshop and learn more about the area's manufacturing heritage. It's a lovely way to finish your weekend and see another side of the city.

Make a weekend of it

With so much happening across Birmingham over Christmas, it's worth staying a little longer to fit everything in.

You'll find accommodation to suit different budgets and styles, from centrally located hotels within walking distance of the Christmas markets to boutique stays and serviced apartments.

Staying overnight means you can enjoy dinner, drinks and evening entertainment without having to rush home, as well as having time to explore more of the city the following day.

Whether you're visiting for the Christmas markets, a shopping trip, a night out with friends or a combination of all three, Birmingham has plenty to make a festive weekend away worthwhile.

Make a weekend of it and start planning your Christmas stay in Birmingham.