Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market is open – dates, times and getting there from Sheldon

Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market has returned to the city centre, bringing German food, festive music and Christmas shopping to Victoria Square and New Street.

The market opened on Thursday 5 November and will run daily until Christmas Eve, Thursday 24 December. This is its 26th year in Birmingham.

For people travelling from Sheldon and the wider B26 area, there are several bus services into the city centre, making it possible to visit without worrying about city centre parking.

The market officially opened on Thursday, with the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zaker Choudhry, and German representatives taking part in the celebrations.

The festive lights were switched on in Victoria Square at 5.30pm.

The market has a long connection with Frankfurt, Birmingham's German partner city. This year also marks 60 years of the partnership between the two cities.

Visitors can expect the familiar wooden stalls selling German food and drinks, alongside handmade gifts, Christmas decorations, toys and jewellery.

The market changed its usual opening hours for Remembrance Sunday.

On Sunday 8 November, the market opened at 1pm instead of 10am.

The later opening was to respect the city's Civic Service of Remembrance and parade taking place on Colmore Row that morning.

The normal Sunday opening time of 10am resumes from Sunday 15 November.

Visitors who have been to the market in previous years may notice a change to the layout.

Due to ongoing public realm works on Bennetts Hill and Temple Street, there will be no market stalls on the section of New Street between the Apple Store and Nando's.

The market continues beyond Corporation Street, with additional craft stalls along High Street.

It is worth keeping this in mind when walking around the city centre, particularly if you are planning to visit specific stalls.

Traditional German food remains a big part of the attraction. Visitors can expect bratwurst, schnitzel, pretzels, hot chocolate and glühwein, alongside other sweet and savoury treats.

There are also stalls selling handmade gifts, decorations, toys and jewellery, making the market an option for some early Christmas shopping.

The bandstand in Victoria Square will host live entertainment throughout the season.

German musicians perform during weekday lunchtimes and evenings, while local Birmingham performers take to the stage between midday and 6pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

The entertainment programme also includes opportunities for local choirs and community groups to perform.

Food and drink prices vary between stalls. Check prices when you visit rather than relying on figures from previous years.

If you are travelling from Sheldon, taking the bus is a practical alternative to driving into Birmingham city centre.

Three useful services run between the B26 area and Birmingham:

Check the Network West Midlands journey planner for the nearest stop, live departures and the latest service information before travelling.

If you are driving, remember that the market is within Birmingham's Clean Air Zone. Check whether your vehicle is liable for a charge before setting off.

The market is free to enter and open seven days a week until Christmas Eve.

Weekday visits may be more convenient for anyone wanting to avoid the busiest periods. Friday and Saturday evenings are likely to attract larger crowds.

For the latest information, opening hours and entertainment programme, visit the official Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market website.

This article is based on information available on 6 November 2026. Opening arrangements, transport services and event details can change, so visitors should check the official market website and journey planner before travelling.