Christmas 2026 | 5 November – 24 December
Bratwurst, glühwein and twinkling wooden chalets: Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is back for 2026. Billed as the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria, it draws visitors from across the country. Here are five things to know.
1. It opens on 5 November
The market runs for seven weeks, from Thursday 5 November to Christmas Eve, making it one of the first big Christmas markets in the UK to open. It’s in Victoria Square and along New Street, between Corporation Street and the Bullring.
2. A special anniversary year
The market began in 1997 with just 11 stalls, born from the partnership between Birmingham and its sister city Frankfurt. In 2026, the two cities celebrate 60 years of partnership, so this year’s market has extra significance.
3. German food, drink and gifts
Expect traditional stalls selling German food and drink, gifts, decorations and jewellery, along with festive entertainment. It’s the perfect place to warm up with a mulled wine and pick up some unusual Christmas presents.
4. Opening hours
The market opens Monday to Thursday from 11am to 9pm, Fridays from 11am to 9.30pm, Saturdays from 10am to 9.30pm and Sundays from 10am to 9pm. On Remembrance Sunday, 8 November, it opens at 1pm. Note that there won’t be stalls between Nando’s on New Street and the Apple Store this year, because of works on Bennetts Hill and Temple Street.
5. Plus a Big Wheel and Ice Rink
Make a day of it: the Big Wheel and Ice Rink return to Centenary Square from 5 November to 3 January. Entry to the market itself is free. The city centre is inside Birmingham’s Clean Air Zone, so many visitors find it easiest to arrive by train at New Street, which is right on the doorstep.
Visit
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
Victoria Square and New Street, Birmingham city centre
Thursday 5 November – Thursday 24 December 2026
Free entry
Nearest station: Birmingham New Street