· Nine colourful reindeer in picturesque arcades and centres
· Thousands of maps printed for families to follow the trail
· Latest colourful trail brought to Birmingham by Central BID
Santa’s nine reindeer will be visiting Birmingham this Christmas as part of a magical sculpture trail, brought to the city centre by Central BID.
Using a special map to locate all nine city centre locations, families can track down Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and, of course, Rudolph, for selfies and to support Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity at the same time.
Brum’s Christmas Reindeer Trail has been brought to the city by Central BID Birmingham, the Business Improvement District for the central retail and leisure area, in partnership with arts trail experts Wild in Art.
Four of the sculptures have been sponsored by trail partners Colmore BID, the Frankfurt Christmas Market, Hortons’ Estate, Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity and Ice Skate Birmingham.
Brum’s Christmas Reindeer Trail launches on 6 November 2024 and continues throughout the festive period until 6 January 2025.
The colourful reindeer will be in on display in locations such as Great Western Arcade, Piccadilly Arcade, Christmas in Cathedral Square Market, Selfridges, Grand Central, the Frankfurt Christmas Market, Ice Skate Birmingham, Corporation Street and at The Mailbox.
Each reindeer plinth features a QR code to enable families to donate and support the vital work of Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity.
The reindeer have been lovingly painted by artists from across the Midlands and Birmingham-based children’s author Ruth Millington has written a magical story to go alongside the reindeer trail for families to download from the Central BID website, while a special story booklet has been produced for kids to read when they are in Birmingham Children’s Hospital this Christmas.
The story, called Brum’s Reindeer Rescue, features colourful sketches of the reindeer across Birmingham city centre by talented illustrator Rachel Suzanne who studied at Birmingham City University.
The reindeer trail has designed and developed by Central BID, working alongside Wild in Art, with a new iconic Christmas sculpture design, unique to Birmingham.
Steve Hewlett, from Central BID Birmingham, said: “This year’s completely new reindeer trail is very special, and we can’t wait to welcome thousands of visitors to the city centre to help Santa find his 9 reindeers in time for Christmas. With thousands of new tree lights, festive markets, ice rink, big wheel, fabulous shopping and hospitality venues, Birmingham city centre is one of the best places in the country at Christmas time.”
Author Ruth Millington added: “I love seeing the city come alive through art trails, so was delighted to write a Birmingham-themed Christmas story featuring this year's reindeer, local landmarks and a well-loved legend. It has been written for every child (and adult) who loves Christmas magic!”
The trail is just one of several wonderful family attractions taking place in the city centre this Christmas to entertain families visiting for shopping and leisure.
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
With big brands at Bullring & Grand Central, Selfridges, a new M&S and the world’s biggest Primark nearby, Birmingham has it all. Visit Piccadilly Arcade and Great Western Arcade for wonderful independents, hair salons and unique gift options.
BARS, RESTAURANTS AND COFFEE SHOPS
From craft beer to family pizza, Birmingham is home to a mouth-watering selection of bars, restaurants and coffee shops with many offering Christmas menus and promotions.
FRANKFURT CHRISTMAS MARKET
Victoria Square and New Street are home to the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany. Enjoy Glühwein, live music and traditional Christmas gifts.
1 NOVEMBER – 24 DECEMBER
CHRISTMAS IN CATHEDRAL SQUARE
This magical festive market at Birmingham Cathedral Grounds features local producers selling crafts, gifts, food and drink. Enjoy a ride on a helter-skelter and a tipple at the Pigeon in the Park Pub.
13 NOVEMBER – 22 DECEMBER
BIG WHEEL AND ICE SKATE BIRMINGHAM
In Centenary Square, Ice Skate Birmingham gives you the opportunity to enjoy ice skating this winter, while the neighbouring Big Wheel gives jaw-dropping city views.
1 NOVEMBER – 5 JANUARY
Book: www.iceskatebirmingham.com
CHRISTMAS SHOWS AND PANTO
Visit Birmingham Hippodrome to see Peter Pan, The Alexandra for The Book of Mormon, The Rep for The Christmas Carol or The Old Rep for The Wizard of Oz, plus shows at Town Hall & Symphony Hall.
