Across Birmingham, the lights have been switched on, giant fir trees have appeared, and perhaps best of all: the Germans have arrived! For the next month, the city centre is transformed into a Frankfurt inspired market, with the smell of candied nuts and garlic mushrooms wafting temptingly along New Street, gluhwein and weissbier on offer from 10am and the irrepressible draw of a singing moose gathering people into Victoria Square.
The market is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the country to Birmingham in the run up to Christmas, generating a huge impact on the local economy, both directly and indirectly, through additional hotel stays, public transport usage and of course, the undeniably beneficial effect on retail, restaurant and bar spend in the city as a result of an earlier trip to the beer stand!
My favourite part of the market is actually the ice rink in Centenary Square. With the Birmingham wheel and the Library of Birmingham as its setting, the outdoor rink really inspires a festive feeling, particularly under night lights. Beyond just looking great, it’s also a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to have some fun and be active in the city centre: something that we are passionate about at Node – and something which is sadly a rarity in UK cities. This is particularly true in Birmingham, where there is a paucity of leisure options full stop, let alone as a way of engaging with the public realm. Compare this to the dynamic and exciting streets of cities like Copenhagen and Barcelona, where opportunities for activity provide a powerful impetus for people to move on foot and by bike in their everyday life…
But enough complaining (for now at least): let’s get back to Christmas in Birmingham! The Node team is really excited about the festive season and after the success of our launch party, we are delighted to announce that our Christmas party will be taking place on Thursday December 8 from 5pm at our new offices in the Grand, Colmore Row. We would love you to join us for a few drinks, the products of the Node Bake Off and quite possibly, some singing!
Please RSVP using the link below:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/nodes-christmas-party-tickets-29214188424
Details of Birmingham’s Frankfurt Market:
Dates: 17 November to 29 December, except Christmas Day
Times: 10am to 9pm
