 | | At the ice rink |
Saturday 11th November 2006 saw the countdown to Christmas officially begin in Birmingham with the annual switching on of the Christmas lights. But that was just the start. Read on to find out about all the exciting events that Birmingham City Council have organised throughout the festive season. Frankfurt Christmas Market - 16th November - 23rd December, Victoria Square, Free The popular market returns to Victoria Square with German traders selling jewellery, handmade toys, candles, glasswork, traditional Christmas decorations and hot food and drink. T-Mobile Street Ice - 24th November - 14th January, Centenary Square
 | | People enjoying the Frankfurt Market |
An all improved outdoor street ice rink returns to Centenary Square. Ideal family fun for all ages. Christmas Craft Market - 1st - 24th December, Chamberlain Square, Free This seasonal fair showcases goods from many regional producers including jewellery, handmade soaps, candles, glassware and ceramics. Santa's Christmas Grotto at The Bullring - 2nd - 24th December, St. Martin's Square Visit Santa in his winter wonderland and receive a special gift. The Thomas Vale Pantomime Horse Grand National - Sunday 3rd December, Victoria Square, Free to watch
 | | Panto horses |
Silly and entertaining antics with obstacle courses and water jumps. Aston Hall by Candlelight - 2nd - 9th December This special event will re-create the spirit of a 17th century Christmas as one of the country's finest Jacobean houses is transformed with hundreds of candles, live performances of period music and sword fights, together with a craft fair and refreshments. £9 adults, £7 conc, £30 family (2 adults, 3 children). Tel: 0121 303 1966 or visit www.bmag.org.uk for more information. Christmas Workshop - Saturday 9th December, Sutton Park Join the rangers for Christmas activities and then follow the trail to Santa's Grotto at the Donkey Sanctuary.
 | | Canal boat parade |
Free - but booking is essential. Please call: 0121 355 6370 Broad Street Canal Boat Light Parade - Sunday 10th December - route from the NIA to The Mailbox A flotilla of illuminated canal boats with beautiful decorations will make their way along Birmingham's canals. You're advised to arrive early! Father Christmas at Birmingham Nature Centre - 2nd + 3rd, 9th + 10th, 16th + 17th December Visit Father Christmas to receive a present, see the Nativity and have a chance to feed the animals. £1.80 adults, £3 children. Be advised that booking is essential from November 1st. Please call: 0121 464 8728. Christmas Past - Friday 15th December, Blakesley Hall
 | | Christmas presents |
Enjoy carols, seasonal music from Tudor musicians and meet the housekeeper. Then have a cupper in the Tea Room. £4 adults, £2 conc. Please call: 0121 464 2193 Victorian Christmas Weekend - 16th + 17th December, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Free Come and meet look-a-like Queen Victoria and her Lady in Waiting. Also enjoy carol singers, musicians and a nativity trail around the galleries, along with seasonal food from the Edwardian Tea Room and the chance to shop for that special gift. Georgian Family Christmas, Sunday 17th December, Soho House Museum
 | | Merry Christmas from the BBC WM boat |
Meet the butler and housekeeper as they make preparations for Christmas Dinner. Also enjoy festive music, children's craft activities and a Tea Room. £4 adults, £2 conc. Search for Santa, Sunday 17th December, Lickey Hills Country Park Each year, Santa stops off at the Lickey Hills. Follow Santa's trail through the woods to find his grotto and presents. Please book now as this event is very popular and places are limited. New Year's Eve - Sunday 31st December, City Centre, Free
 | | A spectacular fireworks display |
If you happen to in Birmingham at midnight, celebrate the start of the New Year by watching the sky light up with a canopy of fireworks. For more information on any of these events, please call 0121 202 4266 or visit www.birmingham.gov.uk Christmas Shows Don't forget there are a whole range of fabulous shows and pantos on offer this Christmas. Take a look at our round-up. | 
