Birmingham’s main Christmas market is known as Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market. The largest of its kind outside Germany and Austria, it’s been packing in the punters – from around the UK and beyond – since 1997. Now it’s one of the city’s major annual events, attracting millions of visitors every year.

This year, the market runs from November 5 until December 24, aka Christmas Eve. Here’s everything you need to know to maximise your market experience.

Where is Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market located?

Most of the excitement takes place around Victoria Square, around a 10-minute walk from central Birmingham’s three main rail stations: New Street, Moor Street and Snow Hill. So, not only do you get direct transport links near the heart of the action, but the central setting also puts you within easy reach of other top attractions. Spot of shopping at the Bullring, anyone?

What can I expect to find there?

From cosy-looking wooden chalets selling hand-crafted trinkets to an ear-pleasing mixture of carol singers, local musicians and oompah bands decked out in lederhosen, you’ll find lots to keep you busy. Take a five-minute wander to Centenary Square, meanwhile, and you’ll discover even more yuletide magic: Ice Skate Birmingham, the city’s indoor ice rink, is open over the festive period and just right for a Christmas-themed activity the whole family will enjoy. Next to the ice rink, you’ll find the Birmingham’s ‘big wheel’, adorned in Christmas lights, naturally. Hop on board for panoramic views across the city rooftops.

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Stalls serving up warming treats / Image: Shanae Ennis-Melhado

What about the food and drink?

Expect a selection of tasty treats and beverages that stay true to the market’s German roots. Think sizzling bratwurst sausages in a variety of flavours, huge, doughy pretzels sprinkled with coarse sea salt, and mulled wine by the ladleful to help warm your cockles on those crisp winter evenings.

Plan your visit

  • Visit earlier in the season to avoid the bigger crowds

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market kicks off in early November, so expect things to get busier as the big day gets closer, particularly over the last two weekends before Christmas. Visit on a weekday if you prefer to avoid the busy atmosphere on Friday and Saturday nights.

  • Travel by train

Victoria Square (the main market location) is pedestrianised, so don’t expect to drive up and smoothly glide into a parking space, as there’ll be heavy traffic to contend with, especially in the run up to Christmas. Save yourself the hassle and get a train to the city centre.

  • Make a weekend of it

Birmingham is a great place to visit at any time of year, so why not combine the festive celebrations with a longer trip? Whether you’re dining in the historic canal area, pottering about the Jewellery Quarter, or enjoying a front row seat for a musical at the famous Hippodrome, Brum should be on the shortlist for any city break.

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