Where To See The Very Best Christmas Lights Switch-On Events In Birmingham

Everything you need to know about Christmas lights switch-on events in Birmingham.

Charlie Case • November 9, 2023

Birmingham, UK - December 2, 2019: People walk past the Christmas lights at the Birmingham Christmas Market — Shanae Ennis-Melhado, Shutterstock

Glittering, dazzling, twinkly Christmas light displays in Birmingham are almost here and nothing gets us in a festive mood faster! We all know that whole city comes alive at this magical time of year – especially if you’re down by the Christmas markets. But when do they all turn on? Well, we’ve rounded up the best Christmas lights switch-on events in and around Birmingham.

1. Edgbaston Village

Credit: Edgbaston Village Christmas Market

Coinciding with the increasingly popular artisan market in Edgbaston Village, the Christmas lights will switch on Saturday, November 11. Kicking off the festivities first in the West Midlands, head down to Greenfield Crescent from 10 am to find over 70 stalls of handmade gifts, festive food and drinks. At 3pm, the stage acts begin – with appearances from Santa, a ‘Frozen-inspired’ performance, Elmhurst Ballet School performance, and choirs singing Christmas carols. The Christmas lights switch-on will take place at 6pm.

2. Colmore Business District

The Yummy Brummie at the Colmore Christmas lights switch on, next to a drag queen and stood in front of a merry go round — Credit: Colmore BID

The forty-stall Christmas in Cathedral Square market returns on November 15 until December 17. Taking place by Birmingham Cathedral on Colmore Row, the area’s Christmas lights switch-on will take place between 6.30 and 8pm, comprising of “festive cheers and entertainment”, as well as special guests, street acts and live music.

3. Jewellery Quarter

Jewellery Quarter's christmas lights in Birmingham — Credit: Jewellery Quarter

Over a hundred jewellery-themed Christmas lights will glow up The Golden Square on November 17. Between 5pm to 7pm, you’ll also find live music from The Black Jeans and Elle-J Walters Music, fireworks and an appearance from Doreen Tipton, who’s playing Doreen the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at the Birmingham Hippodrome! There are also two 30-foot Christmas trees and over 60 festive windows for you to admire. The Jewellery Quarter’s christmas lights switch-on is always a special event and in 2019, the Telegraph rated it as one of the best switch on events in the country. We can’t wait!

4. Harborne Lights Up

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Harborne High Street must be one of the most beautiful high streets in Birmingham during Christmas. Harborne Lights Up 2023 takes place on took place on November 18, from 3pm – 6pm, to bring this lovely part of town to life. Beforehand, make sure to check out The Harborne Market, which is celebrating its 1st birthday with over 50 traders joining for the party, from 10am – 3pm! A mini market will also keep providing festive treats during the later festivities.