8 reasons to visit Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market
The largest authentic German market outside Germany and Austria has returned to Birmingham, and while smaller than previous years due to the ongoing redevelopment of Paradise Circus, is bound to attract hundreds of thousands of people to the city over the next five weeks.
From beers to bratwurst, Christmas carols to crêpes, The Frankfurt Market promises to be the star attraction of the city’s festive offering.
Here’s 8 reasons why The Frankfurt Market is a must visit this Christmas:
1. The best bratwurst
Along the whole length of the market there are vendors selling traditional German bratwurst. Cooked on a swinging grill, the bratwurst comes in a brotchen (roll) and with a choice of traditional toppings, such as onions and mustard. For the hungrier, there’s even the foot-long bratwurst.
2. The hot Glühwein (mulled wine)
Glühwein is a traditional and loved hot alcoholic Christmas drink which is usually made of white and red wine and various spices such as cinnamon, cloves, lemon slices and aniseed – all the traditional smells of Christmas. It is the perfect drink to warm you up on a cold winter’s night.
3. Indulgent crêpes
Whilst traditionally French, crêpes are another festive favourite at the market. They can be filled with savoury cheese and ham, or to satisfy a sweet tooth, Nutella and banana.
4. The Chrismoose
Over the years, Birmingham’s singing Christmas moose (Chris Moose) has become a famous attraction in his own right. Located directly in front of the Council House entrance, the singing moose guarantees a Christmassy atmosphere. It is the most popular meeting spot in the whole market.
5. Carols and Christmas songs
Whether it’s a choir singing a traditional carol or Mariah Carey belting out from a nearby shop, there’s always a mix of seasonal songs at the Christmas Market. There are daily bands on the Christmas stage and carol singers throughout the market.
6. The beer
Do as the Germans do and grab a stein full of crisp cold beer. It goes perfect with bratwurst, crepes, pretzels and just about anything.
7. The Carousel
The ornate carousel is a favourite with children. Situated in Victoria Square, it brings the sights and sounds of a festive fairground to the mark.
8. The atmosphere
There’s nothing else quite like it. Wrapping up warm and heading out into the crisp cold air is made all the more palatable with the festive fare and a steaming mug of hot chocolate or Gluhwein.
The market is open daily between 10am – 9pm and this year runs until Christmas Eve.
The famous big wheel and ice rink have been relocated to Eastside Park, close to Millennium Point, for this year because of the improvement works to Centenary Square.
