The holiday season is here, and Birmingham and the West Midlands are set to shine with a lineup of magical events for the entire family. From sparkling ice rinks to heartwarming shows, here’s your ultimate guide to this year’s family-friendly festive activities.

 

 

1. Winter Funland

When: December 7 – January 1
Where: NEC Birmingham

The UK’s largest indoor Christmas funfair is back! Unlimited rides, a circus, an ice rink, and a visit from Santa himself make this a must for families this December.
 

 

2. Brum’s Christmas Reindeer Trail

When: November 6, 2024 – January 6, 2025
Where: Across Birmingham

Get ready for a magical reindeer trail through Birmingham City Centre! Use the map to track down Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, and the whole team, all while snapping selfies and supporting the Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity with every stop. Each reindeer is hand-painted by local artists, with a heartwarming story by Birmingham author Ruth Millington to guide your journey.
 

 

3. Big Wheel and Ice Skate Birmingham

When: November 1 – January 5, 2025
Where: Centenary Square, Birmingham

Soak up panoramic views of Birmingham from the Big Wheel before gliding around the city’s outdoor ice rink! Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a total beginner, this is a festive favourite you won’t want to miss​.

4. Dick Whittington

When: November 20 – January 4, 2025
Where: Belgrade Theatre, Coventry

Join Dick Whittington on his journey to become the Lord Mayor of London in this charming pantomime. Expect laughs, catchy songs, and a few surprises along the way. It’s a Christmas classic that all ages will enjoy.
 


5. The Nutcracker 2024

When: November 22 – December 14, 2024
Where: Birmingham Hippodrome

Experience the magic of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker. With stunning costumes, Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, and captivating performances, this timeless ballet is the ultimate Christmas treat​.
 


6. Visit Santa: Vintage Sleigh Ride Experience

When: November 22 – December 23, 2024
Where: Coventry Transport Museum

Take a step back in time with a magical sleigh ride experience and meet Santa! Children will love the gifts, and the vintage atmosphere makes for a perfect family photo op​.
 


7. Santa Hunts

When: November 23 – December 24, 2024
Where: Black Country Living Museum, Dudley

Can you find Santa hiding among the historic streets of the museum? This interactive treasure hunt is a delight for little adventurers. Be sure to stay for carolling and hot chocolate!
 


8. Luminate Coombe

When: November 30 – December 31, 2024
Where: Coombe Abbey Country Park, Coventry

Wander through an illuminated trail of mesmerising light displays set against the backdrop of Coombe Abbey’s stunning grounds. Ideal for a peaceful yet magical evening stroll​ with all the family.
 


9. Christmas at the Castle

When: Nov 23, 2024 - Jan 5, 2025
Where: Warwick Castle

Celebrate the season at Warwick Castle! Meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their elves during enchanting storytime, glide across the stunning new ice rink, and explore their incredible light trail illuminating the historic grounds. With festive treats in the Food & Drink Village and new features like the Snow Queen on horseback, it’s a Christmas adventure like no other!

10. The Snowflake

When: December 5, 2024 – January 12, 2025
Where: Birmingham Rep

Dive into a touching family story that captures the magic of Christmas. The Snowflake brings all the holiday feels with its heartwarming narrative and charming performances​.
 


11. Christmas at Alton Towers

When: November 29 - January 5, 2024
Where: Alton Towers Resort

Get ready for festive fun with family rides, holiday shows, and the UK’s only CBeebies Land this Christmas at Alton Towers! This year brings all-new experiences for 2024, including the Festive LIVE Show with Santa and The Reindeer Games – an exciting adventure to find the missing reindeer. Create magical memories on Towers Street, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the season.
 


12. Christmas Wonderland at Drayton Manor

When: November 23 - December 24, 2024
Where: Drayton Manor Resort

Step into the holiday magic at Drayton Manor's Christmas Wonderland! Meet Santa in his Enchanted Grotto or hop aboard Thomas’ Hot Chocolate Express for a sweet adventure. With seasonal entertainment, dazzling decorations, and amazing family rides in Thomas Land, it’s a perfect day of holiday cheer for all ages.
 


13. Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market

When: November 1 – December 24, 2024
Where: Birmingham City Centre

The city transforms into a festive paradise with the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany. Think twinkling lights, irresistible treats like bratwurst and pretzels, and stalls filled with handcrafted gifts.​
 


14. Christmas Celebration Weekends at Cadbury World

When: Weekends from November 23 – December 22; + 23rd and 24th December
Where: Cadbury World, Birmingham

Celebrate the season with a chocolatey twist at Cadbury World! Join Santa and his elf, Jingle, in a magical live show packed with sweet surprises for children. Don’t miss the Festive Character Afternoon Tea, where you can enjoy decadent treats alongside Cadbury’s beloved characters like Freddo and the Caramel Bunny.
 

 

 

15. Christmas Tour and Tudors at St Mary’s Guildhall

When: December 11 – 17, 2024
Where: St Mary’s Guildhall, Coventry

Step back in time with a Tudor Christmas experience. Sing carols, explore the stunning hall adorned with decorations, and learn how they celebrated the season in centuries past.

 

 

16. The Jingleclaw

When: December 12, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Where: Birmingham Hippodrome

In the snowy village of Winterwood, Astrid must save her town from the music-hating Jingleclaw while learning to embrace her unique rhythm. Featuring original songs, holiday magic, and a touch of mischief, The Jingleclaw is a delightful first musical for ages 3+.

 

 

17. A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story

When: Until January 5, 2025
Where: Birmingham Rep

Get ready for chills and cheer as A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story haunts Birmingham Rep this festive season! Mark Gatiss's acclaimed retelling of Dickens’ classic brings eerie special effects, supernatural encounters, and Victorian thrills. Will Scrooge redeem himself or face a grim fate?
 

 

18. Christmas Grotto and Festive Fun

When: December 15, 2024
Where: West Midlands Police Museum, Birmingham

Step into the season at the Lock-Up! Kids can visit Santa in his Festive Grotto, enjoy holiday crafts, write letters to the big man in red, and follow a family-friendly trail to uncover what the naughty elves have been up to. With hot chocolate for every ticket and unlimited time to explore the museum, it’s a holly jolly day for all.

 

 

19. Elf - The Musical

When: December 20-22, 2024
Where: bp pulse LIVE, Solihull

Buddy the Elf is here to bring belly laughs and a reminder that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear! Don’t miss this hilarious performance for the whole family.

 

 

Whether you’re gliding on ice, hunting for Santa, or indulging in holiday treats, Birmingham and the West Midlands are the perfect places to celebrate this Christmas!