Christmas markets are one of my favourite parts of the festive season. Some are big and atmospheric, others are small and full of hidden gems, and all of them bring a bit of magic to cold winter weekends. If you’re looking for the best Christmas markets in Birmingham and across the West Midlands this year, this guide has everything you need. From big-city festive events like the Frankfurt Christmas Market to cosy artisan fairs and one-day makers markets, I’ve pulled together every 2026 date and location in one place.
I’ve also created a brand-new interactive Christmas markets map so you can see exactly what’s near you and plan a magical festive day out with the kids
As always please check before travelling due to last minute changes to any events
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
Dates: Thursday 5 November to Thursday 24 December 2026
Where: Victoria Square / New Street
This is the big one and probably the most famous market in the area. It transforms Victoria Square and the city centre all the way down New Street, bringing in huge crowds, so expect a busy atmosphere and premium prices. It’s great for soaking up the Christmas feeling, grabbing a bratwurst or warm drink, and walking through the lights. Families will enjoy it, but it can be crowded in the evenings as older people begin their nights out and social gatherings with the tankards of beer so a daytime visit is usually easier.
Christmas in Cathedral Square, Birmingham
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: early November to Christmas Eve)
Where: Cathedral Square (Pigeon Park)
A smaller and more relaxed alternative to the main German market, but also easy to wander between the two. This one focuses more on local makers and rotating stalls, so you often find handmade gifts, candles, soaps and art. It’s a good choice if you prefer supporting small businesses or want something a bit calmer than the main city centre market. Opens 11am until 9pm and then later at the weekends.
Brindley Artisan Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: 18 December)
Where: Brindleyplace, Brunswick St, Birmingham B1 2JF
In collaboration with Birmingham Artisan Markets, this event showcases local makers, crafters, and foodies. Discover a wide array of handmade crafts, gourmet treats, and unique gifts, all within a festive atmosphere. Celebrate creativity and local talent while finding perfect Christmas gifts and enjoying the vibrant artisan community.
Edgbaston Village Christmas Artisan Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: 13 December, 10am to 4pm)
Where: Greenfield Crescent
A lovely artisan-style market with crafts, food producers and handmade gifts. It has a more local, community feel compared to Birmingham city centre and is a good option for browsing at a gentler pace. Great for picking up quality items and talking to the people who actually make them.
Harborne Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: 22 and 23 November)
Where: Moor Pool Hall
Harborne’s festive market usually brings together street food, small gift stalls and local traders. It tends to be busy but has a friendly atmosphere and lots of variety. Based at Moor Pool Hall, A solid choice if you want something Christmassy without heading into the city centre.
Jewellery Quarter Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: 20 December, 10am to 3pm)
Where: The Golden Square
A great mix of makers, artists and independent local businesses. You’ll often find jewellery, prints and unique gifts you won’t see in bigger markets. The area is already full of independent shops and cafes, so it’s easy to make a full day of it and so close to Christmas it just has the perfect vibe.
The Coffin Works Festive Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: 1 December)
Where: 13-15 Fleet Street, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham, B3
Set in the charming courtyard, visitors can explore a variety of unique local arts and crafts, perfect for holiday gifts, with free market entry. Enjoy discounted guided tours of the Coffin Works Museum, available hourly from 11am to 2pm, at a special price of £7.50 (normally £10). Pre-booking for tours is advised to secure a spot on this delightful festive day.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: 6 and 7 December)
Where: The Botanical Gardens
A beautiful setting for a festive market, especially if you want a calmer space away from the city centre. Usually an artisan-style event with a good selection of handmade products and food items. Plus of course you can wander around the beautiful grounds for a winter stroll. This one is free for members but garden ticket entry £5 per person will be required for others.
Christmas Craft & Gift Fair, Himley Hall, Dudley
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: 15 and 16 November, 10am to 4pm, £3 entry, under 16s free)
Where: Himley Hall
Everything Digbeth Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: late November)
Where: Located at the Zellig Building in Deritend (B5)
This market is open from 12.00pm-5.00pm and is also just around the corner from my favourite Red Brick Market which is full of pop ups from some fab Birmingham based independent traders. Perfect for vintage finds and unique creative crafts.
Bournville Christmas Festival
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: the last Saturday in November)
Where: Bournville Village Green, 35 Sycamore Road, Birmingham B30
This is the big one – where the lights to (in my opinion) the best Christmas tree in Brum get switched on! Enjoy Santa’s Grotto, choir performances, and festive music by the Bournville Carillon. Explore craft markets, savor delicious street food, and visit the Handmade Christmas Craft Fair at Selly Manor Museum. Organized with community partners, this event offers free entry, though some activities may require a fee.
MAC Christmas Arts Market
Dates: Saturday 28 November to Sunday 6 December 2026, 10am to 5pm, free entry
Where: Midlands Art Centre, Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH
Enjoy free entry to discover a diverse array of handmade products, including ceramics, jewellery, paintings, and textiles. Meet talented local designer-makers and gain insights into their creative processes. Savor seasonal treats and hot drinks from the KILN Café. Renowned for quality craftsmanship, this festive market is perfect for finding unique gifts and supporting local artisans.
Solihull Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: 16 to 22 December)
Where: Mell Square and beyond
Held in Mell Square or along the High Street depending on the year and weather Solihull’s Festive Feast market is a mix of food, drinks and Christmas gifts. Good for families because everything is fairly compact and easy to navigate. They are also hosting the jingle jog and a family fun day in December so keep an eye out for info on their socials.
Dudley Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: mid December)
Where: High Street
A local market with a mix of food stalls, crafts and festive entertainment. Usually quieter than the big city events which makes it easier for families with pushchairs.
Christmas Market Codsall & Wergs Garden Centre, Wolverhampton
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: late November)
Where: WV8
This is a craft and makers market. Enjoy browsing a delightful selection of unique gifts, handmade crafts, festive decorations and delicious seasonal treats – all in a cozy, completely dry and undercover setting.
Coventry Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: late November to early January, with the big wheel)
Where: Broadgate Square
Coventry offers a range of stalls with gifts, decorations and seasonal food. It’s usually lively without being overwhelming and is a good alternative if Birmingham feels too crowded. They have a big wheel too!
Walsall Festive Maker’s Market & Christmas Light Switch On
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: late November, with the lights switch-on)
Where: The entire event begins at 11.00am and ends at 8.00pm. The Festive Maker’s market runs from 3.00pm-8.00pm but there is also a Christmas Maker’s Market at The New Art Gallery, Walsall from 11.00am-3.00pm. Plus a Christmas Lights Switch-On, Illuminate Projection Show (4:45pm-5:30pm), live music and dance performances, family-friendly, creative workshops and the chance to make leather Christmas decorations at Walsall Leather Museum (11.00am-3.00pm, £1.50, drop in)).
Wolverhampton Christmas Shopping Market
Dates: Friday 11 to Thursday 17 December 2026
Where: Dudley Street
A mix of high street shopping and festive stalls. It’s a good one for combining Christmas shopping with a wander around the market area.
Sutton Coldfield Victorian Christmas Market
Dates: Friday 11 to Sunday 13 December 2026, on The Parade (last year also ran a second weekend, so check for extra dates)
Where: Town Centre
This one is really atmospheric with a Victorian theme and it is always a family favourite. Lots of costume, old-style stalls and entertainment. Families tend to love it, and it’s a good chance to find something a bit different.
Christmas Craft Fairs at Stourbridge Glass Quarter Attractions, Dudley
Red House Glass Cone Christmas Craft Festival on Sat 29-Sun 30 Nov (11:00-4.00pm) and Christmas Fair at Ruskin Glass Centre on Sat 29-Sun 30 Nov (10.00am-4.00pm).
Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre
Dates: Thursday 3 to Sunday 6 December 2026 (Thursday 12pm to 9pm, Friday 11am to 9pm, Saturday 10am to 8pm, Sunday 11am to 5pm)
Where: Cathedral Square and High Street
One of the most popular Victorian-style markets in the region. It gets incredibly busy so plan ahead, but the atmosphere is brilliant. Expect traditional stalls, street performers, and plenty of places to grab a festive treat. This one is a road block event so I highly reccomend public transport or utilising the park and ride.
Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Market
Dates: Saturday 28 to Sunday 29 November and Saturday 5 to Sunday 6 December 2026 (Saturdays 10am to 8pm, Sundays 10am to 5pm). The Christmas lights switch-on is on Saturday 14 November.
Where: throughout the town centre – Waterside, Bridge Street, High Street and Sheep Street
A beautiful market but extremely crowded, especially at peak times. Great for atmosphere and variety, and the fairground rides add an extra bit of fun. Not ideal for pushchairs, so go early if you want a calmer experience. A huge range of vendors including lots of food and some beautiful artisan gifts available too.
Leamington Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: a Sunday in late November or December)
Where: the Parade
Leamington’s market is a one day event bursting full of craft stalls and artisan food. It’s a really good place to find unique gifts and support local makers. We like to combine this with a visit to the pantomime and just enjoy all the place has to offer.
Merry Hill Christmas Market, Brierley Hill, Dudley
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: 1 to 21 December, 11am to 8pm)
Open daily from 11.00am-8.00pm.
Warwick Victorian Evening / Warwick Christmas Market
Dates: November 2026, exact date to be announced, 12pm to 9pm, free entry
Where: Market Hall Museum
This one night only market is styled around traditional Victorian Christmas themes and usually includes rides, performances and independent stalls. A lovely one for older kids who enjoy the atmosphere.
Redditch Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: late November)
A smaller, more local market with festive stalls inside the Kingfisher Centre. Good for families looking for something simple and easy to wander around and a bonus being that it’s all indoors and you have easy access to the centre shops to get lots of things ticked off the lists.
Middleton Hall Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: early December)
Where: Middleton Hall and Gardens
Features artisan and food stalls in the hall and courtyard. Entry is £4 for adults, and under 16s are free.
Kidderminster Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: mid November)
A regional market with a mix of food, drink and Christmas gifts. The Christmas lights switch-on usually happens on the same day, so it is always a busy, fun one.
Bewdley Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: late November)
Where: Load Street and Riverside
A charming riverside setting with a strong local feel. Ideal if you want somewhere that’s not too overwhelming. The main event is the light switch on so it is bound to be busy and there are some smaller local festive events happening throughout December including a Nutcracker Trail with local shops participating.
Evesham Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: late November)
Where: Town Square and Bridge Street
Another good local choice with handmade gifts, festive food and family-friendly activities.
Trentham Estate Christmas Makers Market
Dates: Saturdays and Sundays 21 to 22 November, 28 to 29 November and 5 to 6 December 2026, 10am to 4pm, free entry
A very popular artisan market with high-quality handmade items. Trentham attracts brilliant makers so it’s a great place for thoughtful gifts. It does get busy, so earlier visits are best. Open 10-4 and so ideal to then visit the gardens for the light trail.
Stafford Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: mid December)
Where: Market Square
A community-style artisan Christmas market with stalls, entertainment and local produce.
Lichfield Victorian Christmas Market
Dates: The Lichfield Christmas Fayre is on Sunday 15 November 2026 (10am to 4pm, over 100 stalls, free entry). The Victorian Christmas Market dates are to be announced (last year: 4 to 7 December).
Where: Market Square
A traditional Victorian market in a historic setting. Lots of atmosphere and plenty to see. Very popular one day event so expect crowds.
Tamworth Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced
A regional market with stalls, food traders and festive activities for families.
Cannock Christmas Markets
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: 22 and 23 December)
Where: Market Place
A smaller market but a handy, local option with a friendly feel for last minute shopping organised by Bescot Promotions who are also running more last minute events throughout the Midlands.
Penkridge Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: late November)
Where: Penkridge Market
Often hosted at the market site with a mix of food and craft stalls. Good for easy family browsing. The Victorian night is a whole day event and ticket entry is £3 per adult.
Shrewsbury Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: 19 and 20 December)
Where: The Square
A lovely market in a historic town, with high-quality stalls and a great atmosphere. There are also several other smaller events happening throughout December so keep an eye out.
Telford Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: late November to early December)
Where: Southwater Square
Last year the large event took a break, but the makers market went ahead with artisan makers and foodie treats available which promises to bring a cosier vibe.
Bridgnorth Christmas Market
Dates: 2026 dates to be announced (last year: mid December)
A picturesque market with local stalls and festive entertainment. Really pretty if you enjoy smaller, traditional Christmas settings.
Nottingham Winter Wonderland
Dates: Opens Thursday 12 November 2026
A huge Christmas market and festive attraction with rides, bars and ice skating. It’s further out but many West Midlands families travel for it. Dates and times for all specific attractions vary – book the ice skating ahead!
Chatsworth House Christmas Market
Dates: Saturday 7 November to Sunday 13 December 2026. Market entry is free, but car parking must be booked in advance (£25 per car, or £15 after 3pm).
Where: Lodge Hill
One of the most beautiful and talked-about Christmas markets in the region. High-quality stalls, stunning surroundings and a real festive atmosphere. Pre-booking is usually essential as you do have to pay £25 per car however entry to the actual market is free and also included in tickets to the House.
Birmingham has several Christmas markets running throughout November and December 2026, including the Frankfurt Christmas Market, Christmas in Cathedral Square, Brindley Artisan Market, the MAC Arts Market, and smaller local events in Harborne, Bournville and the Jewellery Quarter. Most major markets begin in early to mid-November and run right up until Christmas Eve.
The Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market runs from Thursday 5 November to Thursday 24 December 2026. It is one of the largest authentic German Christmas markets outside Germany, stretching from Victoria Square down New Street with food, drink, stalls and entertainment.
Yes, most of Birmingham’s Christmas markets are completely family friendly during the daytime. The Frankfurt Market gets much busier (and boozier) in the evenings, so families often prefer quieter times or alternative markets like Cathedral Square, the MAC, Harborne or Bournville, which offer calmer, more local vibes.
Most Christmas markets across the West Midlands are free entry, including markets in Solihull, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Bournville, Stratford-upon-Avon, Evesham, Kidderminster and Bewdley. Some heritage venues like Middleton Hall or the Botanical Gardens may charge an entrance fee, but the majority are completely free.
It depends on what you’re looking for. The most popular include the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market (biggest atmosphere), Worcester Victorian Fayre (traditional), Stratford-upon-Avon (beautiful but busy), Coventry Christmas Market (great alternative to Birmingham) and the MAC Arts Market (artisan gifts). The map makes it easy to explore them all.
Family-friendly picks include Bournville, Solihull, MAC Arts Market, Bewdley, Evesham, and many of the one-day artisan markets that are quieter and easier to navigate with pushchairs. Worcester and Stratford are brilliant but can be extremely busy, so early visits are recommended.
There are several one-day or weekend-only Christmas markets including the Brindley Artisan Market, Edgbaston Artisan Market, Bournville Christmas Festival, Warwick Victorian Evening, and various makers markets in Walsall, Sutton Coldfield, and Stafford. Dates vary, and the interactive map highlights them all clearly.
Most markets begin between mid-November and early December, with some (like Birmingham Frankfurt) starting at the beginning of November. Others, like artisan markets and heritage locations, run on specific weekends or one-day events.
Only a few do. Coventry’s Christmas market and big wheel ran into early January last year, and Nottingham Winter Wonderland usually runs into the new year too. Most outdoor Christmas markets finish on or before Christmas Eve.
Yes! This guide includes a fully interactive map with over 40 Christmas markets across the West Midlands. You can tap the icons to check dates, locations and details, and use it to plan festive days out with ease.
Tips for Visiting Christmas Markets in Birmingham
Visiting Christmas markets is one of the best things to do in the West Midlands during winter, and a little planning can make the experience much smoother. Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your visit.
Go early to avoid the crowds
Most markets become busiest from mid-afternoon onwards, especially the larger ones in Birmingham, Worcester and Stratford. Morning visits are quieter, easier with children, and better for browsing the stalls.
Weekdays are usually quieter
If you can visit during the week, you will avoid the heaviest crowds. This is especially helpful at the Frankfurt Market and Worcester Victorian Fayre.
Parking can be difficult, consider park and ride
Birmingham, Worcester, Stratford and Coventry all have reliable public transport options. Park and ride or travelling by train often saves time compared with searching for parking spaces.
Check pushchair accessibility
Some markets, such as Bewdley, Bournville and Solihull, are relatively easy to navigate with a pushchair. Others, including Stratford, Worcester and the Birmingham Frankfurt Market, can become very congested during peak hours. Early visits are recommended.
Dress warmly and bring gloves
Christmas markets are mostly outdoors, and temperatures drop quickly. Gloves are particularly helpful if you plan to take photos or hold hot drinks.
Most stalls take card, but bring some cash
Many traders now use card readers, but a small number of independent makers or charity stalls may still prefer cash.
Keep track of one-day and weekend-only events
Some of the most interesting artisan markets only run for a single day or a weekend. Check dates on the interactive map or add reminders so you do not miss them.
Compare food prices before joining a queue
Prices for festive food can vary between stalls. A quick look around before choosing can help you stay within budget.
Bring reusable bags
You may end up buying more than expected, and some markets charge for paper bags.
Look for nearby activities
Many markets are close to other attractions such as ice skating, light trails, museums or theatres. Combining activities can turn a quick visit into a full festive day out.
Last Updated on Friday, October 2, 2026 by Lavania Oluban