Get ready to soak up the festive vibes in Birmingham! The city comes alive at Christmas, with twinkling lights, bustling markets, and plenty of family fun to enjoy. If you’re planning a holiday getaway, PREMIER SUITES Birmingham is the perfect spot to call home—think comfy apartment-style rooms with all the perks of a hotel.
Here’s a quick guide to making the most of Christmas in Birmingham, from gift shopping and cozy cafés to festive entertainment and the city’s famous Christmas markets.
Discover Birmingham’s Famous Christmas Markets
A visit to Birmingham during the holiday season would be incomplete without exploring its renowned Christmas markets. Among the highlights is Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market, the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria. Running from early November through Christmas Eve, this market takes over Victoria Square and New Street, transforming the city centre into a festive wonderland.
At the Frankfurt Market, you’ll find an array of festive treats, handcrafted gifts, and traditional German fare. Stroll through wooden stalls selling mulled wine, pretzels, bratwursts, and sweet pastries. The market is also a treasure trove for unique holiday gifts, with handmade crafts, jewellery, and festive ornaments.
For a cozier market experience, the Christmas in Cathedral Square offers local gifts, crafts, and delicious food stalls. This market focuses on supporting Birmingham’s independent businesses, so it’s the perfect spot to find distinctive presents while enjoying a quieter, more intimate holiday atmosphere.
Festive Things to Do in Birmingham
Beyond the markets, Birmingham offers a wide range of holiday activities for all ages. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, there’s something to enjoy for everyone.
- Ice Skating at Centenary Square: For a truly classic Christmas activity, head to Centenary Square for a spin on the ice. The Ice Rink and Big Wheel are open throughout the holiday season, allowing you to take in the city’s festive lights while gliding across the ice. The Big Wheel offers a spectacular view of Birmingham’s winter landscape, especially when the city is illuminated at night.
- Magic Lantern Festival: If you’re looking for something a bit different, the Magic Lantern Festival brings an enchanting experience to the city with its stunning, larger-than-life lantern displays. Each year, the festival introduces new themes, offering a visual treat with intricate lantern designs, from traditional symbols to fantasy-inspired pieces. This family-friendly event is perfect for an evening stroll among glowing lights and festive displays.
- The Birmingham Hippodrome Pantomime: Birmingham’s theatres come alive during Christmas, and nothing says “festive fun” like a traditional pantomime. The Birmingham Hippodrome stages a classic panto performance each year, complete with dazzling costumes, hilarious characters, and lively music. This year’s show promises laughs and excitement for both kids and adults alike.
- Cadbury World Christmas Celebration: For chocolate lovers, Cadbury World is a must-visit. During the holiday season, Cadbury World hosts a special Christmas celebration featuring festive shows, Santa’s Grotto, and delicious seasonal treats. You can indulge in Cadbury’s signature chocolates, take a tour of the factory, and meet Santa himself.
Christmas Shopping in Birmingham
Birmingham is a top shopping destination, and during Christmas, its stores and shopping centres offer everything you need for holiday gifts and festive décor.
- Bullring & Grand Central: One of the UK’s most popular shopping centres, Bullring & Grand Central is home to over 200 shops and eateries. Here, you’ll find everything from high-end fashion and electronics to popular beauty brands, making it a one-stop-shop for all your holiday shopping. Don’t miss Selfridges, an iconic department store with a wide selection of luxury goods, perfect for finding unique gifts.
- Mailbox Birmingham: For those looking for a more luxurious shopping experience, Mailbox Birmingham offers designer brands, fine dining, and even a cinema. It’s an excellent choice for last-minute gifts or treating yourself to something special during the holiday season. The beautifully decorated atrium creates a cozy atmosphere that enhances the holiday shopping experience.
Staying at PREMIER SUITES Birmingham This Christmas
If you’re visiting Birmingham during the festive season, PREMIER SUITES Birmingham provides the perfect accommodation for a comfortable and convenient stay. Located in the heart of the city, our suites offer spacious, apartment-style accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, separate living and dining areas, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Here’s why PREMIER SUITES is the ideal choice for your Christmas getaway:
- Central Location: PREMIER SUITES Birmingham is situated close to all the city’s main attractions, including the Christmas markets, shopping centres, and festive events. Staying with us means you’re only a short walk or drive from the best that Birmingham has to offer during the holiday season.
- Home Comforts with Extra Space: Unlike traditional hotel rooms, our suites provide a “home away from home” experience, perfect for families, couples, or even solo travellers who prefer more space and privacy. With a fully equipped kitchen, you can prepare your own meals, from a Christmas breakfast to festive snacks, making your holiday more personal and enjoyable.
- Flexible Accommodation Options: Whether you’re planning a short visit to experience the Christmas markets or a longer stay to enjoy all of Birmingham’s holiday attractions, PREMIER SUITES offers flexible booking options to suit your schedule.
- Festive Packages and Deals: During the holiday season, PREMIER SUITES Birmingham often provides special packages and promotions, so keep an eye on our website for the latest offers. You can enjoy added perks like complimentary festive treats, extended stays, or early check-in to make your Christmas trip even more enjoyable.
