Birmingham comes alive during the festive season with a magical atmosphere that few other UK cities can rival. From twinkling lights and steaming mugs of mulled wine to traditional gifts and community-led celebrations, the city offers a wide variety of Christmas venues that appeal to families, couples, solo travellers and groups of friends alike.

Whether you’re after a bustling German market, artisan gifts from local makers or simply an excuse to wrap up warm and enjoy some festive cheer, Birmingham has a Christmas market for you.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the can’t-miss Christmas markets in Birmingham — from the famous Frankfurt Christmas Market to lesser-known local gems — to help you plan your perfect winter visit.

1. Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market

Without a doubt, the most iconic and best-known Christmas market in Birmingham is the Frankfurt Christmas Market, affectionately known as the German Market. It’s the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria, and it’s been a mainstay of the city’s festive calendar since 2001.

Location and Dates

The market typically runs from the first week of November through to 23rd December, occupying Victoria Square and New Street in the city centre. The opening ceremony is often accompanied by live music and a festive lights switch-on.

What to Expect

With over 100 wooden chalets, the market features a wealth of traditional German food and drink, handcrafted Christmas decorations, wooden toys, candles, woollen goods, and more. The atmosphere is always buzzing, with carol singers, brass bands and street performers adding to the magic.

Festive Food and Drink

Indulge in bratwurst, schnitzel, currywurst, pretzels, roasted chestnuts, and delicious German pastries like stollen and lebkuchen. Don’t forget to warm your hands around a mug of glühwein (mulled wine) or sample some Bavarian beer.

Tips for Visiting

• Best time to visit: Midweek evenings for the lights but fewer crowds.

• Accessibility: The city council enhances accessibility with widened walkways and dedicated assistance points.

• Travel tip: The market is easily reached by train to Birmingham New Street Station, which is just a short walk away.

2. Christmas in Cathedral Square

One of the newer additions to the city’s Christmas offering, Christmas in Cathedral Square provides a quieter, more boutique alternative to the German Market. It is set in the picturesque grounds of St Philip’s Cathedral and has quickly gained popularity for its emphasis on local businesses and handmade goods.

Location and Dates

Located on Colmore Row, the market generally runs from mid-November until the weekend before Christmas. It’s a favourite among city workers and shoppers looking for a relaxed festive shopping experience.

Why It’s Worth a Visit

Unlike the bustling energy of the German Market, Christmas in Cathedral Square focuses on independent Birmingham-based makers, with stalls selling handcrafted jewellery, ceramics, glass art, small-batch foods, and natural skincare products. It also hosts pop-up bars, live music and community events.

The market is particularly beautiful at night, with the Cathedral lit up and trees decorated in white and gold. It’s ideal for grabbing a hot drink, browsing artisan stalls, and soaking up a more intimate Christmas vibe.

3. Edgbaston Village Christmas Market

Set in one of Birmingham’s most elegant districts, the Edgbaston Village Christmas Market is a curated experience that feels both upmarket and community-led. Organised by Calthorpe Estates, this market has grown in popularity thanks to its blend of festive shopping, live entertainment and gourmet street food.

Location and Dates

The market is hosted in and around Greenfield Crescent in Edgbaston and typically takes place on one or two weekends in late November or early December.

What Makes It Special

This market is particularly appealing to those looking for a family-friendly, dog-friendly, and less commercial experience. Expect handmade gifts, vintage clothing, homewares, local cheeses, chutneys, Christmas puddings, and more. The event also coincides with the Edgbaston Village Christmas lights switch-on, which adds a real sparkle to proceedings.

You’ll also find activities for kids, including Santa’s grotto, face painting and storytelling sessions.

4. Midlands Arts Centre Christmas Makers Market

For something creative and culture-rich, head to the Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) in Cannon Hill Park, which hosts an annual Christmas Makers Market. This market is a paradise for those looking for one-of-a-kind, handmade gifts from the region’s finest artists and craftspeople.

Location and Dates

Usually held over two weekends in late November and early December, this indoor market provides a warm and welcoming environment for browsing art, prints, ceramics, textiles and more.

Ideal For:

• Those who prefer to avoid the cold but still want the festive experience.

• Art lovers looking for original works and gifts that support the local creative community.

It’s a great spot to visit with friends or family before taking a walk through Cannon Hill Park or grabbing a meal at KILN Café, located inside the MAC building.

5. Attic’s Indie Winter Market – Stirchley

This one-day festive event is a cult favourite in the city’s independent scene. Organised by Attic Brew Co., a much-loved craft brewery in Stirchley, the Indie Winter Market combines seasonal cheer with local creativity and small business spirit.

What to Expect

Browse stalls selling:

• Eco-friendly candles

• Vegan bakes

• Illustrated cards

• Hand-poured wax melts

• Festive jumpers

• Ethical jewellery

Pair your shopping with one of Attic’s seasonal brews, hot cider or mulled wine and enjoy street food from local pop-ups.

6. Moseley Farmers’ Market – Christmas Edition

Moseley’s award-winning farmers’ market goes full festive once December rolls around. Though it’s usually held monthly, the December edition is one of the most beloved local Christmas events.

Why Go?

It’s packed with over 60 stalls offering artisan produce, craft beer, mince pies, hand-thrown pottery, and small-batch festive treats. The community vibe, carol singers and hot food stands make it a heartwarming experience.

Held in Moseley Village Green, it’s an easy bus ride from the city centre, and an ideal spot for those who prefer their Christmas shopping without the commercial frills.

7. Kings Heath Village Square Christmas Market

A community-organised affair, Kings Heath Village Square Christmas Market focuses on hyper-local makers and performers. There’s a wholesome, family-friendly feel with choir performances, storytelling, and craft tables for children.

Best For:

• Supporting small local enterprises.

• Meeting community groups and grassroots creators.

• Buying gifts that are truly unique and made in Birmingham.

Dates vary yearly, but it typically happens on a weekend in early December.

8. Winter Socials and Pop-Ups at The Custard Factory

Birmingham’s Creative Quarter is no stranger to cool pop-ups and festive happenings. Around Christmas, The Custard Factory in Digbeth becomes a lively hub for:

• Alternative Christmas fairs

• Street food festivals

• DJ sets and indie brand takeovers

While not a traditional market, it offers a unique blend of urban creativity and holiday celebration, perfect for those who like their Christmas with a twist.

Check social media and listings for up-to-date info on Digmas, their popular independent Christmas market event.

Other Festive Highlights

Centenary Square & Ice Rink

During the festive season, Centenary Square turns into a Christmas playground complete with a huge ice rink, big wheel, and plenty of photo opportunities. While not a market in the traditional sense, it’s a magical place for children and couples.

Mailbox Christmas Experience

For a more refined shopping experience, the Mailbox hosts an indoor Christmas shopping and dining event, with live music, prosecco tastings and luxury gift ideas.

Travel and Accommodation Tips

How to Get There

Birmingham is well-connected by rail, coach, and road. The city centre markets are a short walk from New Street, Moor Street and Snow Hill stations. Most markets are also accessible by bus and West Midlands Metro trams.

Where to Stay

Top picks for accommodation include:

• The Grand Hotel Birmingham – luxury and walking distance to all major markets.

• Staying Cool at Rotunda – sleek serviced apartments overlooking the Bullring.

• Hotel du Vin Birmingham – perfect for couples on a festive break.

• Budget options: Premier Inn and Travelodge branches are scattered across the city centre.

When to Visit the Markets

For the best experience:

• Weekdays are quieter.

• Early December strikes the right balance between full operation and manageable crowds.

• Evenings deliver the full effect of fairy lights and music, but wrap up warm!

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

• Bring cash: While most stalls accept cards, some smaller traders don’t.

• Stay warm: Layer up! Birmingham evenings in December can be icy.

• Bring your own tote or reusable bag for sustainable shopping.

• Book parking in advance if driving — spaces go quickly during market days.

• Support local: Choose independent traders and ethical goods where possible.

Final Thoughts: Why Christmas Markets in Birmingham Are Unmissable

From the world-famous Frankfurt Christmas Market to creative hubs like Digbeth and Stirchley, Birmingham offers one of the most diverse and exciting Christmas experiences in the UK. Whether you’re after traditional German sausages and steins or locally crafted gifts with personal flair, you’ll find a market that suits your vibe.

These markets are more than just places to shop. They’re where the city’s festive soul comes to life — in song, scent, sparkle and story. With twinkling lights, steaming cups of glühwein, friendly vendors, and unique gifts at every turn, Christmas in Birmingham is not just a date on the calendar — it’s an experience you won’t forget.

So, get your coat, grab a friend (or go solo!), and head into Birmingham for a Christmas market adventure that delivers festive joy on every corner.