Winter evenings in Birmingham become filled with the magic of Christmas when the city’s streets are illuminated by thousands of lights, and the air is infused with the aroma of hot mulled wine and freshly baked treats. The Christmas week forecast promises mild weather with light precipitation and even glimpses of sunshine. So why not make use of these enchanting days to visit pleasant and interesting places to save Christmas memories for the year to come?
Birmingham Christmas Market
Let’s start with the main attraction – the Birmingham Christmas Market, which opens around 15 November and runs until 23 December. It is located in the city centre, near Victoria Square, where everyone can find something special: from unique gifts to festive food. Here you can enjoy carousels, an ice rink, and entertainment programmes that add to the festive atmosphere. This year, for the 24th time, the market is dedicated to Birmingham’s twin city – Frankfurt am Main. It is the largest German market outside of Germany. There is very little time left, so hurry up to get some German sweets and mulled wine.
Casinos for Adults
If the weather is not on your side, Birmingham’s casinos invite you in. Genting Casino on Broad Street is not only a place to play but also an elegant establishment with a restaurant where you can sample exquisite cuisine. Here you can try your luck at the poker or roulette tables, or simply spend an evening with a glass of whisky in a luxurious atmosphere. And if you don’t feel like leaving home, you can always play at trusted online casinos, even using your smartphone. A guide to British online casinos will help you with that, where you can find reliable, verified casinos that belong to the Spin Rio sister sites. There you can have a great time, test your luck, and maybe even win a bit for an evening stroll around Birmingham’s pubs.
Theatre Performances
For art lovers, the Birmingham Repertory Theatre offers Christmas shows that promise an excellent mood. In December 2024, it plans to stage “Christmas Carol” – a classic story that is perfect for the festive season – and “The Snowflake” for younger audiences.
Another venue, The Hippodrome, also has musical shows and ballets in its repertoire that will ensure you have a cultural break. This year, it’s staging “Peter Pan” and the children’s musical “The Jingle Claw.”
Music Concerts
The festive days are filled with music. Symphony Hall is home to many Christmas concerts. Over the two weeks leading up to Christmas 2024, it will host a series of events called the Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival. In this concert series, you can listen to the Manchester Concert Orchestra as well as enjoy interpretations of popular musical works and soundtracks performed by the famous Glenn Miller Orchestra.
Sporting Events
If active recreation is more your thing, Villa Park – the home stadium of Aston Villa – can offer you football matches. In December, Premier League matches are usually held, adding an extra adrenaline rush to Christmas celebrations. On 30 December, Aston Villa will host Brighton at their home stadium, marking the team’s last football match of the year.
Excursions
Despite the unpredictable winter weather, you can delve into Birmingham’s history by visiting cosy places dedicated to culture, history, and archaeological and artistic heritage. This includes the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, where you can feel the spirit of the city even in rainy weather. You can also take a bus tour with Birmingham Tours and not even step outside to see all the city’s tourist attractions.
Cosy Cafés and Lively Pubs
For those seeking warmth and comfort, there are plenty of cafés, such as Cafe Roter, where you can enjoy hot chocolate or coffee to the gentle sounds of jazz. If you prefer a more vibrant atmosphere, pubs on Broad Street, like Walkabout or The Old Joint Stock, not only offer traditional British cuisine but also live music, making them the perfect place to celebrate Christmas.
Restaurants
The festive season is a wonderful time for gastronomic discoveries. At Opheem, you can enjoy high-end Indian cuisine, while Adam’s offers gourmets a tasting menu featuring the best flavours of British cuisine. Both restaurants stand out for their atmosphere and reputation, making them an excellent choice for a Christmas dinner.
Birmingham in December is a city that truly lives for Christmas. Regardless of the weather, you can always find a place to experience warmth, entertainment, and the real Christmas spirit. From visiting the Christmas market to evening performances at the theatre, from trying your luck at the casino to savouring local cuisine in cosy restaurants – Birmingham offers a variety of festive activities that will make your holiday unforgettable. So pack your warmest jumpers, tune in to the magic, and discover Christmas-time Birmingham in all its splendour.