The festive season is right around the corner and so are many festive events, including local Christmas lights switch ons. Here are those taking place in Birmingham this year.

Edgbaston Village | Saturday 8 November | from 10am

This Saturday, Greenfield Crescent will come alive with twinkling lights, seasonal cheer, and the joyful buzz of families and friends gathering to celebrate.

Edgbaston Village will be kicking off the celebrations with an extended edition of their Artisan Market, Birmingham’s biggest, running from 10am until 6pm along Greenfield Crescent. With over 80 stalls, there’s something for everyone, from beautifully handcrafted gifts and unique Christmas decorations to artisanal foods, seasonal treats, and sweet indulgences.

From 3pm, the excitement ramps up as the main stage comes alive with entertainment for all ages. Enjoy performances from Elmhurst Ballet School, sing along to classic Christmas carols, and watch a magical Frozen-inspired performance. Santa and Mrs Claus will also be making a special appearance, delighting children and adults alike.

Then comes the grand finale: the lights switch-on at 6pm, when Edgbaston Village will sparkle for the festive season.

Jewellery Quarter | The Golden Square | Friday 14 November | 5pm – 7pm with fireworks at 6pm

Expect a fantastic evening of live music from two Jam House bands, street food, and, of course, a spectacular fireworks finale to kick off the festive season.

Harborne Lights Up | Saturday 15 November | from 10am

The Harborne Market, running from 10am - 3pm, will feature 40+ stalls offering festive food and unique gifts to help you out with your holiday shopping.

Plus, a selection of the Harborne Market traders will be sticking around to join the Harborne Lights Up Mini Market, from 3pm - 6pm.

From 4pm, join in with festive fun and entertainment and see a ‘special guest’ switch on the lights.

Longbridge Shopping Christmas Lights Switch On | Saturday 15 November | from 10am

Longbridge Shopping, the home to brands such as Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, Smyths and Herbert’s Yard, will host its annual Christmas lights switch-on event.

The free festive event begins at 10am with the return of the Christmas Market where visitors will find over 20 stalls from local vendors offering a range of sweet treats and unique handcrafted gifts.

At 10.30am and 3pm, families can join a festive book hunt around the centre to find children’s books, which have been hidden in secret locations by Santa’s little helpers.

Then from 4pm, the countdown is on with music performances from Birmingham-based Heavy Beat Brass Band. Visitors to the event will be joined by some very festive guests including the magical light-up wish fairies and roller-skating presents. There will also be a chance to pose for the perfect Christmas photograph inside a giant snow globe between 3pm and 6pm.

Finally, at 6pm the wish fairies will lead the countdown to the big light switch-on, officially marking the start of Christmas.

Colmore Christmas Lights Switch On | Wednesday 19 November | 5.30pm - 7.30pm

The Colmore Christmas Light Switch On returns to Church Street, brighter, and more magical than ever.

Visitors can expect: Santa and friends will be spreading cheer and posing for festive photos; mulled wine from Fazenda; and FREE goodie bags for Colmore BID business attendees. Registration is required HERE.

Hear from special guest Glynn Purnell and the Colmore BID team as they share a few words to mark the occasion and celebrate the community spirit that makes Colmore so special.

Barnt Green Xmas Lights Switch On | Millennium Park | Saturday 29 November | 3.30pm - 6.30pm