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written by
Richard Franks
updated 14.02.2025
Welcome to the festive heart of the United Kingdom, where the spirit of Christmas comes alive in a dazzling array of events and celebrations. The West Midlands, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant communities, transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. From mesmerizing light shows to enchanting Christmas markets, the region offers a myriad of joyful experiences for locals and visitors alike.
From the UK’s largest German Christmas Market to an orchestral reenactment of Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman, here’s what to put in your West Midlands diary this festive season.
Birmingham doesn’t do Christmas by halves. With over five million visitors each year, its Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest of its kind outside Germany and Austria. New Street transforms into a festive hub, lined with wooden chalets selling traditional decorations, handcrafted jewelry, wooden toys, and cozy knitwear.
Victoria Square is where the real magic happens — steins of German beer clink together, bratwursts sizzle on the grill, and the scent of glühwein fills the air. And, of course, no visit is complete without a serenade from Chris the Singing Moose.
The festive fun doesn’t stop after Christmas. Birmingham’s ice rink and big wheel keep the celebrations going into the New Year, adding even more sparkle to the city’s winter scene. As the Christmas Market expands beyond Victoria Square, Centenary Square transforms into a hub of seasonal entertainment.
Brum’s biggest ice rink invites skaters to glide under the city lights, while a nearby bar serves up mulled wine, hot chocolate piled with marshmallows, and winter ciders. For the best views, hop on the big wheel at twilight — watch as Birmingham’s skyline glows against the winter sky.
Hot chocolate! (If that doesn’t ring a bell, it’s time to watch The Polar Express — seriously.) This festive train ride brings the beloved film to life, making it one of the most magical Christmas events in the West Midlands. Departing from Birmingham Moor Street Station, the Polar Express heads to Dorridge and back, with an unforgettable experience along the way.
Actors reenact iconic scenes from the 2004 film, complete with dancing chefs serving hot chocolate and cookies. Santa himself makes an appearance, gifting each child a silver bell — just like in the movie. After the ride, kids can snap photos with the performers, making it a Christmas memory to treasure.
Decided to book a December break? For further inspo, discover more of the best places to visit in December.
Love Elf? This larger-than-life stage adaptation of the Will Ferrell classic brings the holiday chaos to Birmingham’s Resorts World Arena. More than just a pantomime, this high-energy show features massive LED backdrops, audience snowball fights, a moving stage that travels around the arena, and even an indoor snowstorm.
With only two performances, this is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it event — ideal for families, fans of the film, or anyone who believes the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.
Christmas at the Black Country Living Museum © Black Country Living Museum
Step back in time and experience Christmas the old-fashioned way at the Black Country Living Museum. For two nights only, the museum’s gaslit canalside streets come alive with festive nostalgia, offering a unique take on Christmas events in the West Midlands.
Sample traditional holiday treats, enjoy vintage entertainment, and soak up the atmosphere of a bygone era. The museum’s newest addition—a faithful recreation of Wolverhampton’s Elephant & Castle pub — serves up pints of mild, perfect for a winter’s night. Expect carol singers, costumed characters, and plenty of old-school Christmas charm. Bostin’.
The MAC Centre. Midlands Arts Centre Interior, Birmingham © David Hughes/Shutterstock
The Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) in Cannon Hill Park turns up the festive spirit with a packed schedule of Christmas events in the West Midlands. In the lead-up to the big day, expect singalong screenings of Frozen and The Muppet Christmas Carol, plus a live stage adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ beloved children’s book, The Bear.
With its mix of film, theater, and family-friendly fun, MAC’s December lineup is perfect for getting into the holiday mood. Check their listings for the latest events and showtimes.
Birmingham’s Sea Life Center is already a hit with families, home to the UK’s first rescued sea otters, plus sharks, penguins, and turtles. But during the festive season, it adds a little extra magic with Santa’s Grotto.
On select dates in November and December, you can upgrade any valid attraction ticket to include a Santa visit for just $5. Kids get to meet the man in red and take home a free gift — because one more Christmas surprise is always a good idea.
Pantomime season is back, and no Christmas event in the West Midlands is complete without a trip to the Birmingham Hippodrome. The theater’s festive lineup often includes big-name pantos — past productions have featured Dick Whittington, Cinderella, and Snow White, packed with laughs, audience participation, and over-the-top costumes.
For something more traditional, The Nutcracker is a seasonal favorite, while family-friendly shows like Tales from Acorn Wood at Christmas bring holiday magic to younger audiences. Check the latest schedule to see what’s on stage this year.
Warwick Castle Santa Claus sleepover © Warwick Castle
A thousand years of history meets festive magic at Warwick Castle, making it one of the most enchanting Christmas events in the West Midlands. The castle grounds transform into a winter wonderland, complete with a sparkling light trail, an ice skating rink set against the medieval backdrop, and a storytelling session with Santa himself.
For an unforgettable holiday treat, Christmas sleepover packages are available — perfect for little ones who’ve made the nice list this year. Advance booking is required for all events, so plan ahead to secure your spot.
Christmas Celebration at Cadbury World © Cadbury World
December is the perfect time to visit Bournville, home to one of the most festive Christmas events in the West Midlands. Beyond its towering village green Christmas tree, Cadbury World delivers a season packed with sweet treats and holiday magic.
Expect a pantomime performance of Cinderella, a lively stage show featuring Santa’s elves handing out gifts, and plenty of festive chocolatey delights. The on-site shop is stocked with seasonal treats and exclusive gifts — ideal for last-minute stocking fillers.
The Snowman of Coventry Cathedral © Gareth Widdowson/Carrot Production
For a truly magical Christmas experience, Coventry Cathedral hosts a one-day-only orchestral performance of The Snowman. The beloved animation plays on the big screen while a live orchestra brings its iconic score to life, filling the stunning cathedral with festive melodies.
Previous years have also featured additional festive screenings, so check the latest schedule to see what’s planned alongside this Christmas classic. With just three performances, tickets tend to go fast — book early to secure your spot.
Solihull’s Festive Feast brings together great food, live entertainment, and seasonal cheer. Across ten days, street food vendors serve up festive treats, while a late-night shopping event and live music add to the atmosphere.
Previous years have also included family-friendly activities and even appearances from T-rex dinosaurs. Check the latest schedule to see what’s planned this year.
Santa Claus at West Midland Safari Park © WMGC
For a festive day out with a twist, the West Midland Safari Park’s Santa Safari combines Christmas magic with incredible wildlife encounters. Families can embark on a four-mile winter safari, spotting some of the world’s most majestic animals before heading to Santa’s grotto.
Kids can enjoy a hot chocolate and mince pie before choosing their own special gift. For an extra dose of holiday magic, visitors can also take a virtual reality journey to the North Pole. Buckle up — this is Christmas with a wild side!
Whether it’s gliding across an ice rink, hopping aboard the Polar Express, or soaking up the magic of a festive show, Birmingham and the West Midlands deliver Christmas cheer by the bucketload. With markets, light trails, and seasonal surprises around every corner, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate.
Looking for more festive inspiration? Check out our list of the best Christmas destinations.
For more on the West Midlands and beyond, explore our Rough Guide to England. You might also like our picks for the best alternative winter breaks in the UK or our guide to the top winter travel spots. Planning a trip? Our tailor-made itineraries to England can help you craft the perfect getaway.
We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.
This article is brought to you in partnership with West Midlands Growth Company.
Top image: Santa Claus at West Midland Safari Park © Press release
written by
Richard Franks
updated 14.02.2025
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