Christmas days out on a budget

Christmas days out on a budget

Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to spread the festive cheer than by embarking on budget-friendly Christmas escapades around the West Midlands! From twinkling light displays to charming markets and cosy winter wonderlands with Father Christmas. We've put together a list of enchanting activities that will make this Christmas season merry and bright without your wallet having a fright.

German Christmas Market

A firm fixture in Birmingham's calendar, the Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria. 

Wander for hours through the stalls full of traditional wooden gifts and handcrafted keepsakes. Take in the scents of some of the tastiest food, from pretzels, schnitzels, bratwursts, chocolate covered strawberries and freshly made pancakes. The most traditional German drinks are on offer from hot chocolate to gluhwein, or a glass of weissbier. Or simply dance in the twinkling lights of the market as the live singers and DJs play the best Christmas songs.

For more Christmas markets in the west midlands, take a look at our must see markets blog.

Christmas Reindeer trail in Birmingham City Centre

Visit Birmingham City Centres Reindeer Trail between the 6th November and 6th January 2025. Take a wintry walk tracking down Santa's nine reindeers Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and, of course, Rudolph, for selfies and to support Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity at the same time.

Christmas in Cathedral Square

Christmas in Cathedral Square lights up Birmingham Cathedral’s grounds this November and December. Discover local crafts, gifts, and food stalls, enjoy live music, and grab a festive drink at the Pigeon in the Park pub. With pop-up vendors like Purecraft Bar and Kitchen and a helter-skelter ride, it’s the perfect festive day out.

To find out more details visit Christmas in Cathedral Square website.

Resorts World’s Free Festive Fun Event

The atrium comes alive with festive family fun every weekend! Kids can enjoy creative workshops, write letters to Santa, and make reindeer food with North Pole elves. Be sure to meet Bjorn the polar bear, Nena the reindeer, Elsa, Anna, and Olaf, alongside magical performances from the Theatre Train Children’s Choir. Don’t miss out on the fun.

To find out more details visit Resorts World website.

Glide into Christmas at Merry Hill

Kick off the festive season with a glide on the brand-new Glice Rink. Enjoy magical Christmas vibes with twinkling lights, joyful music, snow, and plenty of cheer—all for free! Running until 8th January in the Central Event Space near Mango and M&S, limited walk-up spaces are available for each session.

To find out more details visit Merry Hill’s website.

Go on Jewellery Quarter's Christmas advent trail

Explore 25 festive window displays in the Jewellery Quarter and guess the images for a chance to win a hamper.

To find out more details and download a trail guide visit the Jewellery Quarters website.

The Christmas spectacle at Selfridges Birmingham

As you wander through the iconic yellow bubble, meet Santa and friends as he makes a visit to Selfridges with his trusty elves. A complimentary experience to catch the big guy as he roams around the shop.

Every weekend in December, for more information visit Selfridges Birmingham's website.

West Orchards Santa's VR Sleigh Ride

Experience festive magic with Santa’s Virtual Reality Sleigh Ride on Level 3! Join Santa in his sleigh lodge for a safety briefing before embarking on a thrilling 4D adventure across the globe—and even into space—led by D.A.S.H. After the ride, children can chat with Santa and receive a festive advent book. Perfect for families, this immersive experience seats up to 8 riders for a holiday treat like no other.

To find out more details visit West Orchards website.

Winter Funland at NEC Birmingham

Winter Funland returns to Birmingham’s NEC until 1st Jan 2025, bringing unlimited rides, a dazzling circus show, and a giant ice rink—all included in your ticket price! Perfect for families of all ages, with cheeky elves, festive treats, and even a visit from Santa. 

For more details visit the Winter Funland website.

Don't forget to plan your journey around the city with National Express West Midlands.

Rediscover the West Midlands and take advantage of these great attraction offers when you travel by bus.

30% off admission at LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre

30% off admission at the National Sea Life Centre

25% off admission at the Black Country Living Museum

Get 50% off admission at Thinktank

30% off admission at The Pen Museum

30% off Theatre Tours at The Old Rep Theatre

20% off admission at the Botanical Gardens, Birmingham

25% off admission to Stourbridge Glass Museum