As we dive into the most wonderful time of the year, Birmingham and the West Midlands are bursting with festive cheer. Here’s your guide to making the most of December in the region!

 

 

Christmas in Birmingham City Centre

Birmingham’s city centre has transformed into a winter wonderland this Christmas with twinkling lights, festive markets, and delicious treats galore!

  • Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market: Raise your steins to Europe’s largest authentic German Christmas Market outside of Germany. Expect Bratwurst, pretzels, and more mulled wine than you can shake a sausage at.
     

  • Big Wheel and Ice Skate: Whether you’re spinning on the ice or taking in city views from the Big Wheel, don’t miss this festive favourite in the city
     

  • Christmas in Cathedral Square Craft Market: Support local artisans while sipping a hot chocolate or toasting marshmallows under the glow of the Cathedral.

 

 

Peter Pan

When: December 30 – January 4
Where: Birmingham Hippodrome

This year’s panto is flying high, with Alison Hammond as The Magical Mermaid and Matt Slack as Smee. Expect a sprinkle of fairy dust, jaw-dropping effects, and lots of laughter. You’re sure to be hooked!

 


A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story

When: Until January 5
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?

 

 

Candlelight Christmas Concerts

When: Various dates in December
Where: Birmingham Cathedral and St Paul’s Church

Classical Christmas tunes performed in stunning venues bathed in candlelight? Sign us up! From Home Alone to traditional carols, these concerts are a not to be missed this festive season.

 

 

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.

 

Mulled Wine and Christmas Tour

When: December 1, 8, 15
Where: St Mary’s Guildhall, Coventry

Step back in time with a glass of mulled wine and a tour through the festive history of this 700-year-old treasure. Age 18+, but non-alcoholic options are available.

 

 

The Jingleclaw

When: December 12 – January 4
Where: Birmingham Hippodrome

Perfect for little ones, this heartwarming musical brings holiday magic to life. Join Astrid as she saves her village and learns the true spirit of Christmas.

 

 

Love Actually In Concert: Film with Live Orchestra

When: December 16
Where: Symphony Hall

Big fan of this Christmas classic? You’ll love it even more with a live orchestra playing the soundtrack! Feel all the feels as iconic scenes unfold on the big screen, backed by the power of a full symphony.

 

 

Clays

When: Opens December 2
Where: Piccadilly Arcade, Birmingham

For something a little different, head to Clays, the brand new immersive virtual clay shooting bar! Challenge your friends, sip cocktails, and channel your inner sharpshooter.

 

Peter Kay Live

When: December 5
Where: Utilita Arena Birmingham

The comedy legend returns to the stage for a night of belly laughs you won’t want to miss.

 

 

CBSO Christmas Party

When: December 21
Where: Symphony Hall

Whether you’re a Die Hard or Love Actually fan (or somewhere in between), this Christmas concert is packed full of festive favourites performed by the iconic City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra musicians.

 

 

Looking for more festive fun for all the family? Check out our blog for family-friendly events and activities this December.