T’is the season to be jolly – and right here in the Midlands there is plenty of festive fun to be had. We have rounded up a few of the fabulous Christmas events happening locally, so if you want to get into the spirit of things, you don’t have far to look.
Christmas Markets
Wandering through the twinkling lights, carol singers in the background and packet of roast chestnuts in hand – there’s nothing like a Christmas market to get your shopping started.
Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market – 7 Nov to 23 Dec 2019
The annual Christmas market in the centre of Birmingham is definitely worth a visit. The largest German market outside of Germany or Austria, the huge range of stalls will take some time to stroll through, with glass baubles, handcrafted wooden decorations and a choice of snacks to sustain you while you shop.
The festive atmosphere makes this a lovely way to start the festivities, particularly as the day darkens and the lights come on. If you are taking children, you may want to go earlier though to avoid the huge crowds.
Buzzards Valley Artisan Market – 8 Dec 2019
It may be a little smaller, but the Buzzards Valley Artisan Market still packs a festive punch. Packed out with local businesses, from food producers, homewares, gifts, jewellery and more, you will find unique and personal Christmas gifts for every member of the family. Make sure you don’t miss out, get this very British Christmas market in your diary.
Sutton Coldfield Christmas Food and Craft Fair – 18 Dec 2019
Visit the Parade on the 18th for the annual Sutton Coldfield Food and Craft fair. With over 30 stalls you’ll soon fill your bags with tasty treats and stocking fillers as you explore the range of gifts
Pantomime
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the fun of a traditional pantomime, and not just for the children. There are some truly wonderful shows on every year, so you have your pick of performances to get you in the mood.
Sutton Coldfield Town Hall are bringing the story of Aladdin to the stage this year, so be prepared for magic and flying carpets in far off lands.
Join Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Birmingham Hippodrome to defeat the evil queen this December.
You can go to the ball with Cinderella at The Lichfield Garrick – but make sure you have your best shoes on.
Family festive fun
There are plenty of other ways to join in the festive spirit this December if panto doesn’t appeal.
Lichfield Cathedral has a range of different events, starting with their spectacular annual light show from 16th to 21st December. See the entire cathedral illuminated in a journey through Space, Light and Time.
If you are a fan of the animated film The Snowman, experience it as you never have before, with a live orchestra performing the musical score on 27th December. A captivating experience and a wonderful way to introduce children to various instruments.
Drop into the Gracechurch Centre in Sutton Coldfield throughout December for a selection of activities. Don’t forget to visit Santa in his grotto up to the 24th December, and then pop into The Winter Garden to make your own wreath or tree decoration – available on different dates.
It’s not too late to get tickets to the Santa Safari at West Midlands Safari Park. Enjoy a visit to see the animals, and then hop aboard the sleigh. Santa’s elves will magically transport you to visit Santa, where you can tell him what you most want for Christmas, before joining the elves in their workshop. With a winter wonderland trail and a quick stop at Mrs Claus’ kitchen, you’ll have a fantastic family day out.
Finally, if there is one magical Christmas event you don’t want to miss, it’s the Polar Express steam train, running from Moor Street Station to the North Pole. With dancing, singing and plenty of hot chocolate and a visit from Father Christmas, this is a trip that will delight younger children, older children and adults alike.
The Midlands certainly has the festive feeling this December. If you have a local event taking place this December, let us know.