A Guide to Christmas Markets in the UK

As the festive season approaches, the UK transforms into a winter wonderland, with Christmas markets popping up in towns and cities across the country. 

These markets are perfect for soaking up the festive spirit, indulging in seasonal treats, and finding unique gifts for your loved ones. 

Here’s a guide to some of the best Christmas markets to visit this season, highlighting their food, crafts, and experiences.

1. Manchester Christmas Markets

Manchester’s Christmas Markets are among the largest and most famous in the UK. Spread across several locations in the city centre, the markets feature over 300 stalls offering a variety of goods.

Food: Treat yourself to bratwurst, Dutch pancakes, and mulled wine.

Crafts: Discover handmade jewellery, festive ornaments, and artisanal candles.

Experiences: Visit the iconic Albert Square market for its festive lights and towering Christmas tree.

2. Bath Christmas Market

Set against the stunning backdrop of Bath’s Georgian architecture, this market is a must-visit for those seeking a traditional festive experience.

Food: Sample local cheeses, mince pies, and spiced cider.

Crafts: Browse over 150 chalets offering handmade gifts, including pottery and knitted items.

Experiences: Enjoy carol singers and street performers as you wander through the cobbled streets.

3. Edinburgh Christmas Market

Part of Edinburgh’s wider Christmas celebrations, this market in East Princes Street Gardens is a feast for the senses.

Food: Savour Scottish delicacies like haggis, alongside classic festive fare.

Crafts: Pick up unique gifts such as tartan scarves and locally made soaps.

Experiences: Don’t miss the ice skating rink and the panoramic views from the Big Wheel.

4. Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market

Birmingham’s German-inspired market is the largest of its kind outside Germany and Austria.

Food: Feast on pretzels, schnitzels, and gingerbread.

Crafts: Explore stalls selling wooden toys, glass baubles, and intricate nutcrackers.

Experiences: Sip glühwein in the cosy beer gardens while enjoying live music.

5. Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

This market, set in the historic grounds of Winchester Cathedral, is renowned for its high-quality stalls and festive atmosphere.

Food: Delight in hog roasts, churros, and hot chocolate.

Crafts: Discover bespoke leather goods, art prints, and festive wreaths.

Experiences: Glide across the ice rink or attend a carol service in the cathedral.

6. York Christmas Festival

York’s St Nicholas Fair brings a magical charm to this historic city.

Food: Indulge in Yorkshire pudding wraps and mulled wine.

Crafts: Shop for handmade soaps, woollen scarves, and unique homeware.

Experiences: Take a stroll along the Shambles, beautifully lit with fairy lights.

Tips for Visiting Christmas Markets

Plan Ahead: Check opening dates and times, as they can vary.

Dress Warmly: Many markets are outdoors, so layer up to stay cosy.

Bring Cash: While many stalls accept cards, it’s handy to have some cash for smaller purchases.

Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by visiting during weekdays or earlier in the day.

Whether you’re looking for festive food, unique gifts, or simply a dose of Christmas cheer, the UK’s Christmas markets have something for everyone. Bundle up, grab a mug of mulled wine, and enjoy the magic of the season!

Please note: Check to ensure the Christmas Market you are wanting to visit is operating because bad weather, etc may cause the plans of the operators to change, sometimes at very short notice.

To find Christmas markets near you Google "Christmas markets near me" and see what results you can find.

The Cube Birmingham and free@last Join Forces to Brighten Christmas for Local Kids

This Christmas gift drive is a chance for us all to come together and show local children they are valued and cared for.

This Christmas, The Cube is on a mission to deliver smiles to local children in need. 

Partnering with free@last, a Birmingham-based charity that supports children and families in Nechells, The Cube will host a festive gift drive from 26th November to 11th December.

How to Get Involved:

Collect a Tag: Each tag on the tree represents a gift wish from a child supported by free@last.

Fulfil the Wish: Purchase a gift based on the tag's details.

Deliver the Gift: Return your unwrapped gift to The Cube's concierge for collection.

These gifts will then be delivered to free@last, ensuring they reach children in time for Christmas.

The Cube encourages everyone to participate in this heartfelt campaign and take a moment to make a difference.

"As a central part of Birmingham, we have the opportunity and responsibility to make a positive impact," said Lauren Tozer, Senior Facilities Manager of The Cube. 

She went on to say: "This Christmas gift drive is a chance for us all to come together and show local children they are valued and cared for. Every contribution matters, and we're proud to partner with free@last to support this cause."

free@last has been at the heart of the Nechells community for 25 years, offering essential programmes and emotional support to families and young people. 

For many children, Christmas can be a difficult time. By taking part in this initiative, community members can help bring joy and hope to these children, ensuring they feel remembered and cared for during the festive season.

Learn more about free@last here: https://freeatlast.co.uk

For more information about the campaign, visit https://www.thecube.co.uk/celebrate-the-season-of-giving-at-the-cube-birmingham.

Stronger Voices, More Independence! DOUBLE the difference your Christmas donations make to people with learning disabilities

Birmingham-based charity, CASBA Advocacy have been selected for the third year-running to participate in the UK-wide Big Give #ChristmasChallenge, and every donation made through the BIG GIVE during the week of 3rd to 10th December will be doubled. Yes. DOUBLED.

That means, whatever you can give, no matter the size, every donation will make double the difference in supporting adults with learning disabilities to learn how to self-advocate and change society.

People with learning disabilities are one of the four most disadvantaged groups in all of society. They are often financially excluded, socially marginalised, discriminated against, experiencing the widest health inequality of any group, and now struggling to deal with the worst cost of living crisis in recent memory.

They face complex and longstanding problems, which require a holistic approach to solving them. Without an advocate who will help them, their problems can seem insurmountable. CASBA's advocates ensure people with a learning disability understand their options, have their voice listened to when they express their opinions, and know their rights. 

But CASBA can't do it alone, with the public's support and donations, CASBA can recruit and train more advocates and make an even bigger impact.

Some adults with learning disabilities share the difference CASBA Advocacy has made in their lives;

"CASBA helped me stand up for my right to education" says B, who was able to complete his studies with CASBA’s advocacy support.

At CASBA Advocacy's Self-Advocate group "We talk about things that affect our lives” says young self-advocate M.

"Before CASBA I wouldn't talk to anyone, now I want to tell people what is possible with CASBA Advocacy's help” says J.

If you'd like to help CASBA Advocacy make a difference to even more lives, double your donation, by visiting CASBA Advocacy's BIG GIVE donation page Stronger Voices, More Independence

About CASBA Advocacy

CASBA Advocacy helps people with learning disabilities to get their voices heard and their rights accepted. CASBA Advocacy wants to create a society where people with learning disabilities live as equal citizens.

https://www.casba.org.uk

Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Ken Wood, to Open Rudell The Jewellers’ New Showroom

Just in time for this Christmas season the current Lord Mayor of the city of Birmingham, Councillor Ken Wood, will be formally opening the Birmingham showrooms of Rudell the Jewellers.

A spokesman for Rudell the Jewellers told "That's Christmas: "Having the Lord Mayor join us for this momentous opening truly underscores the significance of this expansion."

Luxury retailer, Rudell The Jewellers, known for a rich heritage within the West Midlands, is set to open its third showroom in the heart of Birmingham. 

On November 11th, 2024, Councillor Ken Wood, the current Lord Mayor of Birmingham, will have the honour of cutting the ribbon at the highly anticipated showroom opening on the Birmingham's iconic New Street, marking another chapter in Rudells’ prestigious history.

Established in Wolverhampton in the 1930s, Rudells has earned a well-deserveed reputation for excellence in fine jewellery and luxury timepieces, including an exclusive partnership with the prestigious brand, Patek Philippe. 

After decades of success in their Wolverhampton and Harborne locations, Rudells has been actively searching for the perfect city-centre premises to further expand its offerings and solidify its presence within the West Midlands.

 The New Street showroom, positioned within the prestigious Burlington Arcade, is set to become a true destination for luxury seekers, combining iconic jewellery and watch collections.

The presence of the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress, Mrs Barbara Wood, at the opening adds a touch of Birmingham heritage to the event. 

Councillor Ken Wood, who became Lord Mayor in 2024, has shown dedication to enhancing the city’s cultural and business environment. 

His attendance at the opening of Rudells’ latest showroom reflects the strong ties between Birmingham’s historic businesses and its civic leadership.

Jon Weston, Rudells’ Managing Director, expressed his excitement for the new showroom and the honour of having the Lord Mayor officiate its opening. 

He said: “Finding the right location in Birmingham has been a long journey, and we’re thrilled to have discovered the ideal space to bring Rudells’ tradition of elegance and excellence to the city centre." 

Jon Weston went on to say: "Having the Lord Mayor join us for this momentous opening truly underscores the significance of this expansion. With our continued partnership with Patek Philippe and an exclusive showcase of the world’s most prestigious brands, we look forward to delivering a luxury experience befitting Birmingham’s vibrant spirit."

The showroom’s design emphasises elegance, combining Rudells’ traditional values with a modern touch. 

The New Street location will feature exclusive showcases for Patek Philippe, establishing it as the only retailer in Birmingham who is offering the revered Swiss watch brand. 

Additionally, the showroom will also be home to a range of renowned jewellery brands including such iconic brands as Chopard, Messika, Fope, Mikimoto, Roberto Coin, and Georg Jensen, among others.

To help navigate the luxurious offerings, the showroom’s expert staff will offer dedicated, personalised guidance, sharing insights into the art of fine jewellery and horology. 

Whether it’s explaining the intricate details of a diamond’s cut or the history behind a prestigious watch brand, Rudells’ passion for quality and elegance shines through, making every visit to the showroom informative and enjoyable.

The new showroom represents the culmination of many years of planning and dedication, bringing Rudells’ legacy and renowned service to a central and iconic location in Birmingham. As work on the new space concludes and preparations for the grand opening are in full swing, the Rudells team looks forward to welcoming new clients and loyal patrons to experience the next era of luxury on New Street.

With the addition of the New Street showroom, Rudells continues its mission to provide exceptional quality, service, and an unforgettable shopping experience in the heart of Birmingham’s thriving retail scene. And let's remember that the location is a mere short walk from Birmingham's iconic Jewellery Quarter.

https://www.rudells.com

Luxury Brand Marco Bicego Set to Launch at Rudell The Jewellers Birmingham Showroom. Just in time for Christmas!

Looking for a genuinely luxurious Christmas gift for the love of your life? 

Then Marco Bicego, the renowned Italian luxury jewellery brand, is set to debut at the Rudell The Jewellers showroom in Birmingham city centre this November.

Known for its exquisite, handcrafted pieces that merge Italian artistry with contemporary style sand design, Marco Bicego’s arrival at Rudells marks a significant and major milestone for both the jewellery house and the iconic West Midlands retailer.

This partnership reflects Rudells’ ongoing commitment to bringing world-class luxury brands to the West Midlands, enhancing Birmingham’s growing reputation as a hub for high-end jewellery. 

Marco Bicego’s introduction to Rudells' Birmingham showroom is expected to draw significant attention, adding a new layer of luxury to the jeweller's already impressive collection including Patek Philippe, Chopard, FOPE, Mikimoto, Georg Jensen, MESSIKA, Mont Blanc and Roberto Coin.

Founded in 2000 by Marco Bicego, the eponymous brand quickly gained a global recognition for its distinctive aesthetic, which combines traditional Italian goldsmithing techniques with modern sensibilities. Each piece in the Marco Bicego collection is crafted by hand in their workshops in Trissino, Italy, ensuring a high level of quality and detail that sets it apart from mass-produced jewellery.

Bicego’s collections are inspired by his Venetian heritage and love for organic forms, often drawing on nature and the fluidity of movement for design motifs. 

The signature hand-engraved gold, combined with gemstones of rich and vibrant hues, gives the pieces a uniquely luxurious yet wearable quality. Collections such as Africa, Lunaria, and Marrakech exemplify the brand’s ability to merge tradition with innovation, making its pieces versatile for both everyday elegance and special occasions.

Rudells and Marco Bicego both emphasise the importance of tradition and quality. Marco Bicego through its handcrafted, artisanal approach rooted in Italian goldsmithing, and Rudell The Jewellers through its commitment to curating the finest luxury brands. 

Both focus on pieces that are not just beautiful but meaningful, with an emphasis on heritage, innovation, and an uncompromising attention to detail.

These values have served as a solid foundation for Rudells' continued growth and success. For over 80 years, Rudell The Jewellers has been a name synonymous with luxury and prestige in the West Midlands. 

Established in 1938, Rudells has earned a reputation for curating a selection of fine jewellery, watches, and luxury accessories from the world’s most esteemed brands alongside their own in-house designs. The addition of Marco Bicego to their Birmingham showroom aligns perfectly with their commitment to excellence in quality, service and value.

Glenn Jenkinson-Deakin, Sales Manager of Rudell The Jewellers, expressed his excitement about the brand’s arrival. “We are rally thrilled to introduce Marco Bicego to our Birmingham clientele,” Glenn said.

“The brand’s reputation for elegance and quality fits perfectly with Rudells’ ethos. We are always looking to offer our clients something unique and extraordinary, and Marco Bicego’s exquisite designs will do just that.”

With its stunning interior and exclusive selection of fine jewellery and luxury watches, Rudells’ Birmingham showroom will be a destination for jewellery and watch lovers alike. The addition of Marco Bicego is expected to add another layer of sophistication to Rudells’ offerings.

As November approaches, anticipation is building for the unveiling of Marco Bicego at Rudell The Jewellers, Birmingham. For those who cherish fine and timeless jewellery, this partnership represents an opportunity to explore a collection that epitomises luxury in its most wearable form. And will be the perfect place to discover and purchase that special luxury piece of crafted, exclusive jewellery for the important person in your life.

Whether you’re a long-time admirer of the brand, or new to Marco Bicego’s world, Rudell The Jewellers’ Birmingham showroom is set to become the latest destination for experiencing some of the finest Italian jewellery.

The showroom doors will open to the public with the new Marco Bicego collection in November, and for those interested in exclusive events, Rudell invites you to stay tuned for announcements in the coming weeks.

You'll find them at the following addresses:-

Rudells Wolverhampton - 97 Darlington Street, Wolverhampton, UK, WV1 4HB

Rudells Birmingham - 89 High Street, Harborne, Birmingham, UK, B17 9NR

www.rudells.com

(I recall that my late grandmother was a customer of Ruddell's as she lived in Harborne.)

Celebrate Christmas at the NEC with the Classic Antiques Fairs

The Classic Antique Fairs is going to help you celebrate Christmas by launching their second Christmas Fair at the NEC in Birmingham, located in Hall Ten, on Friday 29th November until Sunday 1st December.

(Opening Times 10am – 5pm Friday and Saturday, 10am – 4pm on Sunday. – Hall Ten is located on Pendigo Way, Marston Green, Birmingham B40 1NT.)

Classic Antique Fairs at the NEC offers the ideal venue for Christmas shopping either to find that perfect gift for family and friends or to fill a gap in your own collection. (There's nothing wrong with some self-gifting.)

The Fair offers in excess of 70 dealers from virtually every county all over the UK, including London, England, Scotland and Wales. Dealers from BADA, LAPADA and CINOA trade associations are to be well represented, ensuring expertise in all fields. The Fair is almost full, with a few spare stands available for dealers keen for pre-Christmas sales.

Pre-Christmas shoppers will be able to browse from the Roman period right up to the 1950s. A selection of disciplines and dealers include Tribal Art from Ian Shaw Tribal; Treen from Newsum Antiques; Jewellery from Plaza Jewellery, and Sue Brown amongst others.

Glass from Mark J West; Ceramics from Scottow Antiques, Porcelain from Marmaduke’s Emporium; Furniture from Ellis Fine Art ; Silver from Stephen Kalms Antiques; Watches from Scarab and Les Petits Tresors; Clocks from Kembery Antique Clocks; Tea Caddies from Mark Goodger Antiques.

 Select some fine art from Hickmet Fine Arts, Cambridge Fine Art and Garret and Hurst Sculpture. Design from the Art Deco period with Solo Antiques, Andrew Muir Decorative Arts and Design is well represented as is Scandinavian Design with Dansk Silver and Scottish and Scandinavian Design.

Says John Andrews of Classic Antique Fairs: “The November Fair at the NEC offers high quality pieces from every discipline to the discerning collector or the occasional bargain hunter. We feel it's the ideal opportunity to indulge your Christmas spirit.”

Looking to book a stand? It's not too late! You can contact David Evrall through www.classicantiquefairs.co.uk or DavidE@inlocoevents.co.uk

The NEC's Festive Gift Fair is back. And it's even bigger and better!

The four-day Festive Gift Fair runs over four days next month, Thursday 14th to Sunday 17th of November at Birmingham's NEC.

Now in its 28th year, it remains as one of the most popular Christmas Shopping events in the UK for very good reasons.

You'll find 325 stalls all carefully placed within one hall. Wanting festive foods? Stunning decorations? Stocking filler gifts? Tasty festive foods and drinks to try and buy? Then get on down to the NEC!

While browsing the stalls, finding something exciting around every corner, you’ll quickly get into a Christmas spirit. 

You'll be welcomed by Santa on his wonderful sleigh, why not see if you can spot The Grinch? See and hear dinosaurs, meet up with festive characters and enjoy live Christmas time music, including jazz, folk, choirs singing carols and much more besides.

This year you'll be able to enjoy over 100 new stalls that have never attended the fair.

Thursday 14th – Sunday 17th November at NEC, Birmingham

Open Daily 09.30 – 17.00.

GREAT VALUE! Advance adult tickets from just £7 (Plus transaction fee)

Take advantage of the ‘ Buy 3 and get 1 FREE OFFER’ 

https://www.festivegiftfair.co.uk

Discovering the Birmingham German Christmas Market: A Festive Wonderland in the Heart of England

As the festive season approaches, the streets of Birmingham are transformed into a winter wonderland, bringing a touch of continental Europe to the heart of the UK. 

The Birmingham German Christmas Market, the largest of its kind outside Germany and Austria, has become an iconic event in the city’s calendar.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, this festive celebration offers an enchanting experience filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of Christmas.

A Tradition with Global Appeal

Birmingham’s German Christmas Market, also known as Frankfurt Christmas Market, began in 1997 as a cultural exchange between Birmingham and its twin city, Frankfurt. Over the years, it has grown in both size and popularity, drawing millions of visitors each year from across the UK and beyond. Its charm lies in its authentic German food, drink, and handcrafted goods, bringing a little slice of Bavaria to the Midlands.

The market stretches across Victoria Square, New Street, and into Centenary Square, creating a festive pathway of over 80 wooden stalls. It usually opens in early November and runs until just before Christmas, giving people ample time to soak in the holiday spirit.

Culinary Delights: Taste of Germany

One of the biggest attractions of the Birmingham German Christmas Market is undoubtedly the food. Visitors are greeted with the tantalising aroma of traditional German delicacies that fill the air. From sizzling bratwurst sausages to warming pretzels, the food is a comforting indulgence for the cold winter days.

For those with a sweet tooth, stalls offering freshly baked stollen, gingerbread, and sugared almonds are a must-visit. And let’s not forget the warming drink of choice – glühwein, a spiced mulled wine that is perfect for sipping as you wander through the market’s festive stalls. You can also find hot chocolate, beer, and even eierpunsch (an egg-based punch) to keep you warm and merry.

Handcrafted Gifts and Decorations

Beyond the food, the Birmingham German Christmas Market offers a beautiful array of handcrafted gifts, perfect for those looking for unique Christmas presents. Wooden toys, delicate glass baubles, and hand-painted ornaments line the stalls, giving visitors a chance to purchase traditional decorations that evoke old-world charm.

Artisan vendors sell woollen hats, scarves, and gloves – a practical purchase as you explore the open-air market. Whether you're shopping for a loved one or treating yourself, the market’s selection is diverse, with something for everyone.

Entertainment and Festive Atmosphere

The market's entertainment adds to the festive cheer, with live music performances creating a jovial atmosphere. Local musicians often take to the stage, filling the air with Christmas carols and festive tunes. The nearby ice rink in Centenary Square offers an extra layer of winter fun, where families and friends can enjoy a skating session before heading back to the warmth of the market.

Birmingham’s historic architecture also serves as the perfect backdrop for this event, with the grand Council House and the city’s famous Floozie in the Jacuzzi fountain acting as landmarks on the festive trail.

Why Visit the Birmingham German Christmas Market?

There’s something uniquely magical about the Birmingham German Christmas Market. It’s more than just a place to shop or eat; it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and the joy of the festive season. Whether you’re indulging in a bratwurst or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, the market offers a winter escape that is full of warmth, light, and Christmas spirit.

For locals, it’s an annual tradition that marks the beginning of the holiday season. For visitors, it’s a chance to experience a European Christmas market without leaving the UK. With its bustling stalls, delightful treats, and festive ambiance, the Birmingham German Christmas Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the magic of Christmas.

So, if you find yourself in Birmingham this winter, be sure to grab a cup of glühwein, take a stroll through the twinkling stalls, and enjoy the festive wonder that this city has to offer. You won’t regret it!

Practical Information

Dates:   1 November to 24 December 2024

Times  Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm, Fri 11am-9.30pm, Sat 10am-9.30pm and Sun 10am-9pm

(Except on Remembrance Sunday, 10 November – 1pm to 9pm)

Venue         Victoria Square and New Street

Admission: Free entry

Transport: Easily accessible by train (Birmingham New Street Station is a short walk away), bus, or car.

Let the Birmingham German Christmas Market be your festive escape this holiday season!

We might see you there!

https://www.thebfcm.co.uk/birminghams-frankfurt-christmas-market

Creative, crafting and Christmas shows to watch out for

"Simply Christmas: The Crafty Christmas Show is a seasonal dream with exhibitors showcasing exclusive ranges of bespoke and unusual gifts including glassware, jewellery, art, candles, ceramics, clothing and more!" This is at the SEC in Glasgow 26th to 29th of October.

https://www.creativecraftshow.co.uk/crafts-for-christmas-glasgow-23

Simply Christmas: The Crafty Christmas Show is a seasonal dream were exhibitors will be showcasing exclusive ranges of bespoke and unusual gifts including glassware, jewellery, art, candles, ceramics, clothing and more. This is being staged at the Birmingham NEC from the 2nd to the 5th of November.

https://www.creativecraftshow.co.uk/birmingham-christmas-2023

Also at the NEC on those dates is the Creative Craft Show, featuring lots of fantastic crafting stalls all bursting with wonderful crafting ideas.

https://www.creativecraftshow.co.uk/birmingham-november-2023

The above events are operated by:

INTERNATIONAL CRAFT & HOBBY FAIR LTD.

Dominic House

Seaton Road

Highcliffe

Dorset BH23 5HW

United Kingdom

Registered in England No. 1290524

VAT No. 291 7701 44

www.ichfevents.co.uk

(Image courtesy Bob Dmyt from Pixabay)

The UKs Biggest and best Christmas Gift fair is back at the NEC

Be really inspired and get your festive preparations off to a flying start at the ever popular 4-day Festive Gift Fair this November. 

Now in its 27th fabulous year, it remains one of the most popular Christmas Shopping events in the UK for a good reason!

The Fair will be bursting at the seams with a colourful, eclectic mix of unusual stocking fillers and presents, festive food and drink and great Christmas decorations for your home and garden. 325+ stalls all in one hall …. with clever gift ideas for all ages and tastes … and lots of Special Show Offers!

The festive atmosphere is always fantastic! While browsing the stalls, let the music get you into tha Christmassy mood and enjoy being entertained by the Grinch … up to his usual menacing antics, Father Christmas with his amazing sleigh, a whole variety of Christmas harmonies by our live musicians and jazz stilt walkers who will be legging it up the aisles!

Make sure you visit the popular Festive Food & Drink area where you’ll find tempting stalls selling everything from cheese to chutneys, spices to spirits, puddings to preserves, chocolates to champagne, beers to brownies and hampers to hog roasts!

To get you in the mood here’s just a small sample of great presents ideas on offer this year!

Amazing children's gifts

You’ve managed to hide the presents out of sight from little eyes for weeks, and now the big day is here. All smiles on Christmas day!

Bright wooden Fair-trade toys for little astronauts and explorers by Lanka Kade that inspire kids to learn through play. Choose from a Noah’s Ark shape sorter to a 5-4-3-2-1 Blast Off space toy.

Welcome the UK’s No 1 sticker company Fun Stickers with over 1000 designs, you name it, they’ve got it! – tattoos, animals, party bag fillers and lots of Festive ones too.

Fun for all the family in the countdown to Christmas – advent calendars by In Sync Games. Solve the escape room questions for a sweet reward.

Award winning tech company Octagon Studio specialise in flash cards of animals, space, dinosaurs that bring 4D life onto your screens. Incredible technology and present for all ages.

Popular stall Oakmont Distribution will once again be selling branded toys and craft kits at unbeatable prices!

Head to Toys of Character for excellent range of Pocket Money Toys, from Everlasting play foam, Disney squish-a-boos to twiddle cubes and TY soft toys.

Eat, Drink and Be Merry!

Christmas is all about family, friendships and …. delicious food and drink. You’ll find a vast array of tasty treats and boozy delights that you can sample before you buy.

Choose from 15 fantastic cheeses by The Cheshire Cheese Company. Try their best sellers like ‘caramelised onion and rioja’ or ‘Irish whisky and stem ginger.’

For a sweet-tooth taste sensation, try good old fashioned gourmet fudge by Penny Lane Fudges.

Liquorice peanut butter, sea salt and caramel fudge to name just a few!

From plough to bottle, G & T Cornish Gin make a delicious range of tea distilled gins from ‘Cornish Cream Tea Gin’ to ‘Winter Blend Spicey Gin’.

The proof is in the eating, once tasted, Georgie Porgie's traditional melt-in-the-mouth Christmas puddings are impossible to resist!

Take your tastebuds on an adventure with Bugvita – superfoods packed with protein made from edible cricket insects!

Sheer luxury in a gold ingot box by Perfect Tipple, unique sparkling wine infused with 23 carat gold flakes! Great talking point!

Take home a box of gorgeously gooey brownies in over 30 flavours hand made by The Brownie Bar.

Discover your rebel spirit with O'Donnell Moonshine whose hand-made spirits and liqueurs are distinctively bottled in original Mason jars… try Sticky Toffee and Roasted Apple and Tough Nut….

Great stall for liquorice lovers, Black Liquorice Company source the finest liquorice from all over the world and have a vast range of both salty and sweet and even a liquorice syrup!

For partyware, stationery and cake decorating ideas – head to the Evelay stall full of cake toppers, flags, cracker kits and loads more.

For all the ladies in your life?

Pamper your Mum, Granny, Sister, Best Friends, Wife or Girlfriend with a special present this Christmas ….

Simply gorgeous – Primal Chakra make Reiki energy candles scented with pure essential oils and embellished with crystals – for an air of calm and relaxation.

Clutch bags, tote bags, back packs, shoulder bags, cross body bags and party bags – The Handbag Company specialise in premium leather bags at discounted prices.

The Cosy Chocolate Company sell handcrafted decadent drinking hot chocolate in individual pouches or gift sets – so find the perfect cosy moment to curl up and enjoy.

Jewellery designers The Picnic Blanket Company are passionate about creating beautiful whimsical beaded jewellery – stack a few bracelets on your wrist or ankle for the latest showstopping fashion.

Transform your hairstyle with the Golden Curl range of hair straightener and curlers, demonstrated at the Fair by Exclusive Retail.

To turn a head at parties or weddings, visit the Poppy Daisy stall to try on their exquisite hand-made flower headbands.

Husband and wife team formed Letterbox Love in the first National lockdown. Wanting to spread some positivity and kindness with their affordable jewellery message cards by post.

What about the hard to buy for chaps in your life?

Whatever he’s into, whether it be technology, sport, music…. there’s plenty of cool ideas at the Fair.

You’ll need time to browse on the Rebel Records and Toys stall.

Selling all your favourite vinyl discs from David Bowie to Queen and all the 80’s, plus nostalgic comics and toys.

For your after-dinner tipple – delicious Real Sloe Gin made from wild blackthorn bush and infused with gin by Condessa Fruit Liquers.

For hours of fun after your Christmas dinner! Puzzle Post have designed a cool and neat game for a group of up to 8 people – work together to solve 9 puzzles to get you all out of the challenging escape Room.

For great family fun. Take your micro drone by Extreme Flyers to the park – everyone will want a turn to testing their flying skills.

Get chopping the veg and carving the roast, Paudin sell Chef a fabulous set of 3 sharp Japanese Chef’s knives made of high carbon stainless steel.

Inspired by Super Mario, Pac-Man and Pokemon – Retro Gaming Centre will be showcasing their fun new gifts and stocking fillers.

For a unique personal gift, chose a men’s modern leather bracelet featuring their initial in a choice of classy colours by Instinct UK.

Décor for the festive season?

Dressing the tree? Well, that's just the start! Decorating your table, hall and mantle-piece with family heirlooms, twinkling lights, greenery, door wreaths and candles can all help make Christmas really special!

If a rustic traditional Christmas is your style, Tollhouse Country Crafts hand-make a huge selection of wreaths and garlands using dried fruit, cinnamon, pinecones and spices.

Nothing says Christmas more gloriously than a display of flickering candles that smell scent-sational by

Fragrance Sand

Popular 1 Stop Christmas Shop will be back with their great range of seasonal decorations.

Cards for Good Causes is the UK’s largest multi charity non-profit card retailer. By working as a collective group with lots of volunteers, they ensure that every penny of the customers money goes to those that need it most.

Baubles are not just for Christmas– mother and daughter team hand decorate every bauble with images of animals, flowers etc. to have on show all year.

For the dancing diva in you! Look out for LV Bespoke with their glitter ball range in which to hang your plants, plus loads of indoor plants and garden accessories.

Fairy Light Balloons will be selling stunning luminous helium LED balloons – fabulous for kids to wake up to on Christmas morning.

Join them with your friends and family for an inspiring and fun-filled day Christmas shopping at the Festive Gift Fair.

Tickets are on sale at www.festivegiftfair.co.uk

Great value! - Advance adult tickets from just £7 (plus transaction fee)

Take advantage of the Special Ticket Offer – ‘Buy 3 and get 1 FREE’ on advance Thursday/Friday adult full day tickets.

The Festive Gift Fair is open daily 09.30 – 17.00

Thursday 16th – Sunday 19th November at NEC, Birmingham.

For list of stallholders, entertainment programme and visitor information, please visit

www.festivegiftfair.co.uk

Don't forget the Frankfurt German Christmas Market in Birmingham!

Yes, please don't forget the Frankfurt German Chirstmas Market in Birmingham!

You can get a flavour of what it is like here