Unique Things to Do in Birmingham at Christmas

Birmingham is a bustling city which always makes every effort to truly embrace Christmas spirit, and Christmas 2019 is shaping up to be no exception. From a huge German market taking residency within the city centre each year to a variety of seasonally-themed performances and live music – the list of things to do in Birmingham at Christmas is endless.

If you’re in Birmingham during the festivities, perhaps on a business trip or visiting with family and friends, and you want to celebrate the season a little differently then read on for our top events and activities in Birmingham which you may not have known about.

Polar Express on Telford Steam Railway

One of the most popular Christmas events in Birmingham amongst locals, but perhaps lesser known to visitors, is the Polar Express Train Ride which replicates scenes straight from the movie. Guests both young and old are welcome aboard, however if you’re after a fun day out with the kids then this is an activity you’ll want to make sure is at the top of your itinerary. Wearing pyjamas and a dressing gown is a dress code which is actively encouraged so don’t miss the memo. Lo and behold as singing chefs and waiters dance their way down the aisles with plates of warm cookies and hot chocolate whilst you make your way to the North Pole to pay a visit to Santa Claus himself. Upon your voyage home, Santa will join you on board to present each child with a silver bell from his sleigh which is certain to make this Christmas one your doting son or daughter will remember forever.

Polar Express tickets went on sale more than eight months ahead of the festive season and they’re already selling out fast so if you want to join in the fun this year we’d recommend booking as soon as you can.

Bottomless Cinema at Birmingham Botanical Gardens

What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than watching your favourite festival film, surrounded by friends and family, whilst enjoying bottomless drinks, popcorn, ice cream and candy floss? Well, this year Birmingham Botanical Gardens are offering just that. Elf, Love Actually, The Greatest Showman and Home Alone 2 are the four Christmas classics you can choose from whilst relaxing in the magnificent horticultural surroundings of one of Birmingham’s best attractions. Birmingham Botanical Gardens at Christmas has plenty more to experience aside from outdoor screenings, this beautiful Victorian park also boasts four glasshouses showcasing an array of greenery and climates – perfect for exploring on a family day out.

Festive fun at Symphony Hall

The Birmingham Symphony Hall is well-renowned as one of the best concert halls ever built. Situated right in the middle of the city centre, it regularly welcomes some of the world’s greatest orchestras, musicians, dancers, poets and entertainers. With a never-ending schedule of events happening throughout all four seasons it’s only appropriate they include a selection of Christmas themed performances in the runup to the big day. Due to the huge success of the Home Alone Orchestra last year, it’s made its return this time around but instead with a screening of one of the most-loved festive films, Love Actually. Immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas as you listen to a full orchestra performing the enchanting score to accompany a showing of the film on a huge screen.

Alternatively, witness the venue spring to life with its annual Christmas Spectacular performance. Sing along to iconic seasonal songs whilst watching an exhilarating show featuring high kicks, special effects, a full orchestra, West End vocalists, and plenty of dancers. If it’s a quieter evening you’re after, then Christmas Cracker with Aled Jones may be more to your taste. Presented by the man himself, enjoy a remarkable concert of festive readings, joyful songs and Christmas classics.

All these performances, along with many others over the upcoming months, are great for a Birmingham night out with friends, family or even a Christmas social with colleagues. Symphony Hall tickets do tend to sell out quick, especially for their most popular events, so we’d advise you to purchase your tickets online early in advance.

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market

Okay, this one may firmly be set on the beaten path, but how could we not mention the city’s most-notable Christmas centrepiece? Boasting the title of the largest authentic German market outside of Germany and Austria, the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market makes its highly anticipated return this year from 15th November – 23rd December, and it’s set to be bigger and better than ever. Taking over Birmingham city centre, these markets will mesmerize you with endless rows of dazzling stalls encased in a friendly, festive atmosphere. Selling the very best in handmade gifts, traditional winter beverages, delicious desserts and authentic German food, you’ll be guaranteed to be leaving with a souvenir or two. Make sure you record this year’s German market dates in your calendar as it’s famously one of the best things to do in Birmingham at Christmas.

Winter Lights at Himley Hall

Witness the enchanting Himley Hall and all of its natural beauty as it illuminates once again to celebrate the Christmas season; it’s famous Winter Light display will this year run from 13th December - 15th December. If tiresome office work is keeping you busy through the week, it’s a great way to spend the weekend when you have family come to visit, alternatively it also makes a unique spot for an after-work social. Embark on an enchanting after-dark adventure through the glistening parkland whilst admiring the windows of the hall which have been specially decorated to adorn artwork by local school children as part of Advent celebrations. If you don’t want to miss out on the majestic display, buy your ticket now before it’s too late!

Tamworth Snowdome

Hit a brick wall trying to think of the best things to do in Birmingham with kids at Christmas? Maybe you need to look slightly further afield. The Tamworth Snowdome is located only a 30-minute drive from the city and it’s highly recognised as one of the best days out near Birmingham. Lesser known is the excitement it offers during Christmas time. Whilst it is open all year round, the aura of Christmas makes this indoor skiing experience especially enjoyable through the winter months. And what’s even better is you don’t need to be a professional sportsman to take part, all you need is festive spirit and a sense of adventure.

Not just a fun day out for kids - the Tamworth Snowdome has packages available for all group sizes making it a quirky spot for socialising with friends or colleagues, especially if there’s a thrill seeker amongst your cohort. Santa and his much-loved Winter Wonderland will be making an appearance from 15th November so if you do happen to be travelling with children, we’d recommend this as the best time to visit.

Christmas lunch at The Canal House

Perhaps we’re a little bias, but The Canal House offers one of the best roast dinners in Birmingham – come and see for yourself! Christmas time is a great excuse for a traditional lunch with the family or tipples with friends, and we’ve got the flowing drinks packages and vibrant atmosphere to accompany just that. It doesn’t just end there, to make Christmas 2019 all the merrier we’ll also be providing an entertaining line-up of joyful live music throughout December.

Our loving restoration of the old James Brindley pub is the perfect space for work parties and large bookings so bring along your colleagues and clients for an unforgettable Christmas 2019 party or event.

And what better present for a loved one than a unique dining experience? Our gift cards are a great present if you’re not in the city during the most wonderful time of the year but know someone who will be. Please email birminghamchristmas@thecanalhouse.uk.com or call our friendly team on 0121 643 8829 for further information or bookings.