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Free and Low-Cost Christmas Events in the West Midlands [2024]

The festive season is a magical time, and there’s no better way to embrace the Christmas spirit than by enjoying the many unforgettable experiences happening right here in the West Midlands. The region is packed with activities that won’t break the bank.


Local light switch-ons and Christmas markets are typically free to enter. However, I haven't included these in this blog. Of course, Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market, with stalls along Victoria Square and New Street (The largest authentic German market outside Germany and Austria) and an ice rink and big wheel at Centenary Square is one of the most popular Christmas markets in the West Midlands. It's a firm fixture in the city's festive event calendar.


Read on to discover the best low-cost and free Christmas events happening across the West Midlands this holiday season!


Just a note: Many of the below events where pre-booking is required, sell out really quickly. At the time of publication (14.10.24), all events listed have availability, but be quick! And do check back as this list will be regularly updated.


Free and Low-Cost Christmas Events in the West Midlands and Beyond for 2024


  1. Selly Manor Museum: Santa's Grotto

  2. Bromwich Hall: The Toymaker - Family Christmas Performance (pay what you can)

  3. Father Christmas at the Belgrade Theatre

  4. Christmas at Rodbaston Animal Zone

  5. Wednesbury Museum: Festive Performance of Aladdin

  6. The Core Theatre: Santa’s Christmas Cracker - A Festive Family Show

  7. Moor Pool Heritage Trust: Santa's Grotto

  8. Santa Grotto at local TESCO stores across the country (FREE)

  9. Breakfast with Santa at IKEA Wednesbury (FREE)

  10. McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands: Breakfast with Santa and Santa's Workshop

  11. Brierley Hill Civic Hall: The Grinch Stole Christmas

  12. Brierley Hill Civic Hall: Santa's Got Talent

  13. Santas Grotto at Cherry Lane - Barnett Hill

  14. Santa with a Toy and Soft Play at Scallywags Brierley Hill

  15. Touchwood Solihull: Enchanted Christmas Grotto

  16. The Claregate Pub: Santa's Grotto or Christmas Photoshoot

  17. The Round Oak, Wombourne: Visit Father Christmas

  18. CHVH Christmas Fayre: Santas Grotto

  19. Kingswood Trust: Santa Sleigh and Christmas Festivities 

  20. Kingswood Trust: All Day Breakfast with Santa

  21. Arden Hall: Vintage Christmas Gift Fair & Santa's Grotto

  22. AFC Wulfrunians: The Christmas Extravaganza

  23. The Fort Shopping Centre Birmingham: Festive Saturday (FREE)

  24. Santa's Grotto at Great Barr Community Hub

  25. Breakfast with Santa at The Fairfield Inn at Halesowen

  26. Wythall Animal Sanctuary: Mini Market & Santa's Grotto (small donation)

  27. Bodenham Arboretum: Silly Santa Antics Trail & Christmas Nativity Story Trail

  28. Worcester Cathedral’s Christmas Tree Festival 2024 (FREE)

  29. Meadow Farm Pub: Party and Brunch with the Grinch

  30. St Mary's Christmas Tree Festival

  31. Snowdogs Discover Buxton 2024 FREE Trail (donations welcomed)

  32. McArthurGlen Designer Outlet East Midlands: Breakfast with Santa and Santa's Workshop

  33. Echills Wood Railway: Miniature Steam Trains to Santa



 

Selly Manor Museum: Santa's Grotto

Visit Selly Manor's Santa’s Grotto for a special Christmas experience. Plus, get into the festive spirit by helping Santa's Elves prepare for Christmas in their workshop, experience magical storytelling, and take part in crafts.


Selly Manor Museum recommends allowing at least 1 hour for your experience either before or after your 20-minute timeslot to take part in everything. During your 20-minute timeslot, you will be welcomed upstairs into Santa's Grotto to meet the elves and then invited to see Father Christmas.


  • How much? Tickets are £11 per child, there is no need to book adults because they are free! The gift from Father Christmas is suitable from birth. Each group must have a minimum of one paying child. An additional child under 12 months (babies in arms) who is accompanying a full-paying child and does not want a present can join for free. 

  • When? Saturday 7th December and Sunday 8th December. To book tickets for Saturday 7th, click here. To book for Sunday 8th, click here.

  • Where? Maple Road, Bournville, Birmingham B30 2AE.


Bromwich Hall: The Toymaker - Family Christmas Performance

Visitors are invited to Bromwich Hall for a family festive show inspired by various traditional stories from around the world. A single actor skillfully brings the tale to life, using puppets and props to blend multiple stories into a funny, moving, and visually stunning journey through different cultures.


The performance is recommended for children aged 5 and over. All children must be accompanied by an adult, and each attendee will need a ticket.


  • How much? While the suggested ticket price is £4 per person, a 'pay what you can' option is available, allowing guests to adjust the price during booking. Tickets can be booked through Ticketsource.

  • When? Saturday 14th December

  • Where? Bromwich Hall - The Manor House Museum, Hall Green Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B71 2EA.


Father Christmas at the Belgrade Theatre

Join Santa as he awakens from a dream of sun, sea, and sand, only to realize it's Christmas Eve—the busiest day of his year! Follow along as he readies himself for Christmas deliveries, feeds his reindeer, and takes off into the snowy night sky.


This enchanting stage adaptation of Raymond Briggs' beloved book Father Christmas is an ideal first theatre experience for children under six. Directed by Emma Earle, Father Christmas has been a hit in London and promises to delight audiences across Coventry and the region, so early booking is highly recommended!


Although not entirely low-cost, some dates in December are only £12 per person (usually £19pp), which I personally think is really good value. These dates are: 11th, 12th, 15th, 17th, 19th, and 22nd-24th, and 26th-29th December. Click here to book.


All children under the age of 2 need a Lap Seat Ticket, which allows them to sit on the lap of a parent or guardian during the performance. You can add Lap Seat Tickets to your online booking in the Supplementary Events section during the online booking process after you’ve selected your main tickets.


  • Where? Belgrade Square, Corporation St, Coventry CV1 1GS.


Christmas at Rodbaston Animal Zone

Full details for this year's Christmas event are to be announced.


Wednesbury Museum: Festive Performance of Aladdin

Wednesbury Museum will host two performances of Aladdin on Saturday, 7th December at 11am and 1pm. This timeless tale is filled with thrills, surprises, and plenty of interactive fun, making it the perfect affordable family panto.


  • How much? Tickets are £6 per person (for ages 2 and over). Additional tickets will be released on 1st November. Click here to book.

  • When? Saturday 7th December.

  • Where? Wednesbury Museum and Art Gallery, Wednesbury, WS10 7DF.


affordable christmas events near me

The Core Theatre: Santa’s Christmas Cracker - A Festive Family Show

Join Father Christmas, Dotty the Elf, and Dasher the Reindeer on a fun-filled adventure as they help a lost penguin discover the true meaning of Christmas. Will they dare to open the door marked "For Christmas Emergencies Only"?


This 45-minute interactive show is perfect for children aged 2-7, filled with festive songs and surprises. After the show, each child will meet Santa and receive a special gift.


  • How much? £11.50 adult, £10.50 child, £42 family of 4. I thought this was good value for money as most Christmas shows are £30 per person and you're child also gets to meet Santa and receive a gift. Click here for more info.

  • When? 20th-24th December 2024.

  • Where? The Core Theatre, Homer Road, Touchwood, Solihull B91 3RG.


affordable christmas show

Moor Pool Heritage Trust: Santa's Grotto

Meet Santa in his Grotto in the Main Hall between 11am and 1pm on Sunday 8th December. £4 per child including gift. No need to pre-book, just come along.

Crafts and refreshments will also be available.


  • How much? £4 per child

  • When? Sunday 8th December

  • Where? Moor Pool Hall, 37 The Circle, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9DY.


Santa's Grotto at local TESCO stores across the country (FREE)

Event details TBA. This is usually announced the first week of November.


  • How much? Free.

  • When? Dates are released at the beginning of November.

  • Where? Tesco stores across the country.


Free and Low-Cost Christmas Events in the West Midlands

Breakfast with Santa at IKEA Wednesbury (FREE)

Check IKEA's events page on Friday 1st November at 10am for the store's kids Christmas events including Breakfast with Santa!


  • How much? Free

  • When? TBA.

  • Where? IKEA Wednesbury, Park Lane, Wednesbury, West Midlands, WS10 9SF.





McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands: Breakfast with Santa and Santa's Workshop

Make this Christmas unforgettable with your little ones! Join Santa for a magical breakfast, where each child will enjoy a delicious meal, a drink, and a special Christmas gift. Santa will entertain with Rudolph’s favourite festive songs and take photos with every child. You can also visit Santa in his Grotto, where each child will receive a chocolate gift!


For more information on how to book your experience, check out my blog titled "Low-Cost Santa Experiences at McArthurGlen Designer Outlets."

 

  • How much? Breakfast with Santa: £5 per child.

    Santa’s Grotto: From £2.50 to £5 per child. Click here to book either session.  

  • When? Breakfast takes place on the 5th and 12th December 2024.

    Santas Grotto tickets: 22nd November 2024 to 24th December 2024.

  • Where? McArthurGlen West Midlands, Eastern Way, Cannock, WS11 7JZ.


christmas events near me - McArthurGlen Designer Outlet
Photo Credit: McArthurGlen Designer Outlet

Brierley Hill Civic Hall: The Grinch Stole Christmas

It’s the most magical time of the year for almost everyone—except the Grinch. Determined to cause mischief, the Grinch is doing everything he can to stop Santa from delivering Christmas presents and spreading joy.


Join the Grinch and a cast of fantastic characters, including DJ Snowman, two playful Gonks, the Gingerbread Man, and Elf on the Shelf, as they embark on an interactive adventure to prevent the Grinch from ruining Christmas.


  • How much? Adults: £6. Children aged 16 and under: £10. Adult + Child aged under 24 months on lap - £10. Click here for more information.

  • When? Sunday 1st December 2024 & Sunday 22nd December 2024.

  • Where? Brierley Hill Civic Hall, Bank St, Brierley Hill DY5 3DH.


Brierley Hill Civic Hall: Grinch Stole Christmas

Brierley Hill Civic Hall: Santa's Got Talent

With Christmas just around the corner, Santa is preparing for the festive season. This year, Brierley Hill has been selected as the first stop on his journey. However, there’s a problem—Santa has lost his magical Christmas songs! Without them, he has no magic, and Christmas itself could be in jeopardy.


Audiences are invited to join Santa on an exciting, interactive adventure as he holds auditions for members of his Christmas band. Expect plenty of fun, singing, and mischief with some well-known mascots along the way!


  • How much? Adults: £6. Children aged 16 and under: £10. Adult + Child aged under 24 months on lap - £10. Click here for more information.

  • When? Sunday 8th December 2024. Showings 2pm & 5pm.

  • Where? Brierley Hill Civic Hall, Bank St, Brierley Hill DY5 3DH.


Brierley Hill Civic Hall: Santa's Got Talent

Santas Grotto at Cherry Lane - Barnett Hill

Step into a festive wonderland and make your way to Santa’s Grotto! Enjoy a delightful visit with Father Christmas and receive a special gift to mark the occasion. Your ticket provides entry to the Grotto within a designated 30-minute window. Tickets are scheduled in 30-minute slots, and upon arrival, you’ll be added to the queue for your turn to meet Father Christmas.


  • How much? £10.99 per child. Click here to book.

  • When? 30th November and 1st, 2nd, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st-24th December

  • Where? Barnett Hill, Worcester Rd, Clent, Stourbridge DY9 0EE.


Santa with a Toy and Soft Play at Scallywags Brierley Hill

Visit Santa this year at Scallywags Brierley Hill, where he awaits in a charming, traditional wooden grotto. Each child will receive a quality, age-appropriate gift, along with access to the soft play area—creating a magical, affordable experience for the whole family.


  • How much? £12.50 per child and Adults are £1.00. If booked online our system has. £1.00 booking fee which covers administration costs. Click here to book. There's also a cheaper option that includes soft play and Santa meet, but this excludes a toy.

  • When? 23rd and 24th December 2024.

  • Where?


Santa with a Toy and Soft Play at Scallywags Brierley Hill

Touchwood Solihull: Enchanted Christmas Grotto

Santa is back at his enchanted grotto, ready to receive wish lists and share an early gift with your little ones. Also, for one weekend only, the mischievous Grinch will be on the loose, taking over all of Touchwood—so keep your eyes peeled, as you never know where he’ll pop up!

 

  • How much? Santa’s Grotto is £7 per child with Early Bird tickets costing £5 per child. Click here to book.

  • When? You can visit Santa at his Grotto from 23rd November 2024 to 24th December 2024. You can also bump into the Grinch on the 23rd and 24th of November 2024.

  • Where? Jubilee Walk, Homer Rd, Solihull, West Midlands, B91 3GJ.


free christmas events near me West Midlands
Photo Credit: Touchwood Solihull

The Claregate Pub: Santa's Grotto or Christmas Photoshoot

Santa's grotto visits are available to book at The Claregate Pub's Christmas Fayre. £5 per child, including a present.


BW Photo and Video will also be at The Claregate Pub on the 14th, 15th, and 21st of December! For £10, they will take a few photographs and you will get one digital image. To book your slot message now or email info@bwphotovideo.co.uk (Walk-ins also available, £10 cash on the day).


  • Where? Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV6 9ED.


The Round Oak, Wombourne: Visit Father Christmas

Join Tough Enough To Care at The Round Oak pub in Wombourne and meet Santa! Children will enjoy festive activities, receive a special gift from Santa, and explore a Grotto filled with twinkling lights and decorations. The event also features a Christmas Market.

 

  • How much? £7.21 per child which includes a booking fee. Click here to book.  

  • When? 30th November 2024.

  • Where? The Round Oak pub, 100 Ounsdale Road, Wombourne, WV5 8BU.


CHVH Christmas Fayre - Santa's Grotto

Head to CHVH’s Christmas Fayte this December for a magical experience! Enjoy browsing a variety of craft and Christmas stalls from talented local artisans, and visit Santa's Workshop, where children can decorate cupcakes or cookies with the help of Santa’s elves and create glittery Christmas cards.


The Christmas Kitchen will be serving breakfast baps, burgers, hotdogs, cakes, cookies, and mince pies. Don’t forget to stop by Santa’s Grotto for a magical meet and greet, including a digital photo and a special gift from Santa. Bring the whole family for a day of holiday fun!

 

  • How much? £7 per child. Click here to book.  

  • When? 1st December 2024.

  • Where? Calf Heath Village Hall, Straight Mile, Calf Heath, WV10 7DW.


christmas events near me West Midlands

Kingswood Trust: Santa Sleigh and Christmas Festivities

Enjoy the Christmas trail and find Santa and his Sleigh! Then enjoy some outdoor play before heading inside to warm up and enjoy delicious food, fun, and games!

 

  • How much? £12 per car with up to 5 people. £3.50 per child for a gift from Santa. Click here to book.  

  • When? 15th December 2024.

  • Where? The Kingswood Trust, Holyhead Road, Wolverhampton, WV7 3AP.


Kingswood Trust: All Day Breakfast with Santa

Enjoy a delightful hot breakfast and drink, setting the perfect tone for a magical morning. Meet Santa himself, and share your Christmas wishes. Don’t forget to post your Christmas letter to the North Pole!

 

  • How much? £6 per car with up to 5 people. £8 per adult breakfast and £10 for children’s breakfast including a chocolate gift. Click here to book.

  • When? 14th December 2024.

  • Where? The Kingswood Trust, Holyhead Road, Wolverhampton, WV7 3AP.


christmas events near me
Photo Credit: Kingswood Trust

Arden Hall: Vintage Christmas Gift Fair & Santa's Grotto

Experience live music and entertainment from the talented Reza Farrell, who will take you on a journey through the 1940s and beyond with classic hits. Visit Santa in his Grotto to receive a special gift and indulge in afternoon tea and refreshments provided by Lily’s Pop-Up Tea Parlour. Plus, enter the raffle for a chance to win a wonderful hamper filled with prizes from each stall.

 

  • How much? Free entry to the gift fair. Click here for details.

  • When? 1st and 7th December 2024.

  • Where? Arden Hall, Water Orton Road, Birmingham, B36 9PB.


AFC Wulfrunians: The Christmas Extravaganza

Event details TBA.

 

  • How much? General admission: £1.79 including booking fees and £6.13 per child to meet Santa including booking fees. Click here to book.  

  • When? 8th December 2024.

  • Where? AFC Wulfrunians, Castlecroft Road, Wolverhampton, WV3 8LU.


free christmas events near me West Midlands

The Fort Shopping Centre Birmingham: Festive Saturday (FREE)

Meet Santa and his friends for free at The Fort's Christmas event. There will be live music from the Bluebird Belles and all sorts of fun entertainers to see including the Wish Fairies, Gingerbread People, and two mischievous comedy Elves.

Santa will be walking around between 12pm and 4pm.


  • How much? Free.

  • When? Saturday 25th November 12pm-4pm.

  • Where? The Fort, 20 Fort Parkway, Birmingham, West Midlands, B24 9FP.


free christmas activities near me Birmingham




Santa's Grotto at Great Barr Community Hub

Meet Santa and enjoy a Christmas Craft Fair.


  • How much? £4 per child which includes a gift. Click here for details.

  • When? 7th December 2024.

  • Where? Great Barr Community Hub, 3 Vicarage Rise, Birmingham B43 7AQ.


cheap christmas events near me Birmingham

Breakfast with Santa at The Fairfield Inn at Halesowen

This December, Santa will be making a special visit to Halesowen for a magical morning filled with festive cheer, delicious food, and unforgettable moments.


  • How much? £10 per child which includes meeting Santa, breakfast, and a gift bag. Click here for details.  

  • When? 7th and 14th December 2024.

  • Where? Fairfield Road, Hurst Green, Halesowen, West Midlands, B62 9JA.


Wythall Animal Sanctuary: Mini Market & Santa's Grotto (small donation)

Bring the children to meet Santa and capture special photos in the Grotto, where they’ll also receive a present to unwrap on the big day! Explore stalls from local businesses offering perfect gifts for everyone, including your furry friends. Enjoy delicious vegan food, cakes, and hot drinks while the kids partake in games and face painting. Don't miss the chance to enter the raffles and tombola’s.


  • How much? Free entry to the sanctuary and a small donation to visit Santa’s Grotto. Click here for details.  

  • When? 7th December 2024.

  • Where? Middle Lane, Kings Norton, Birmingham, B38 0DU.


Bodenham Arboretum: Silly Santa Antics Trail & Christmas Nativity Story Trail

Find out what silly things Santa gets up to during his downtime! Enjoy traditional favourites, including hot turkey baguettes, mulled wine, mince pies, and a variety of other festive drinks and snacks. This is a two-for-one event as admission also includes entry to the 'Christmas Nativity Story' trail and the 'Walk-Along' Family Quiz!


  • How much? £8 per adult, £5 per child (3 to 16 years), and £26 for a family ticket (2 adults and up to 4 children). Click here to book.  

  • When? 30th November 2024 to 1st January 2025. Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

  • Where? Bodenham Arboretum, Kidderminster, DY11 5TB.


Cheap Christmas events near me West Midlands

Worcester Cathedral’s Christmas Tree Festival 2024 (FREE)

 

  • How much? Free. Click here for details.

  • When? 5th December 2024 to 6th January 2025. Excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

  • Where? 8 College Yard, Worcester, United Kingdom, WR1 2 LA.


Photo Credit: Worcester Cathedral

Meadow Farm Pub: Party and Brunch with the Grinch

Get ready for a fun-filled experience as you enjoy delicious food, a festive party and some mischievous holiday cheer with everyone’s favourite green character! Don't miss out on this unforgettable celebration!


  • How much? £10 per child. Click here for details.

  • When? 21st December 2024.

  • Where? Dagnell End Lane, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 9BJ.


christmas events near me

St Mary's Christmas Tree Festival

Experience the magic of the season at St Mary’s Christmas Tree Festival. Each sponsored tree is uniquely decorated, creating a festive wonderland that will enchant visitors of all ages. Come and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as you stroll through this stunning showcase, perfect for sparking joy and inspiration for your own celebrations.


  • How much? TBA. Click here for details.

  • When? 28th November 2024 to 8th December 2024.

  • Where? The Collegiate Church of St Mary, Old Square, Warwick, Warwickshire, CV34 4RA.


christmas events near me
Photo Credit: St. Mary's Warwick

Snowdogs Discover Buxton 2024 FREE Trail (Derbyshire)

Experience the magic this winter with Snowdogs Discover Buxton, a Wild in Art event supporting Blythe House Hospice. Explore a charming trail of 12 unique pups around Buxton, inspired by ‘The Snowman and The Snowdog’.


Pick up a map for a suggested donation and collect magic letters from each pup to solve a festive phrase for a chance to win a £100 voucher. Each special pup will be auctioned to raise vital funds for Blythe House Hospice, helping them provide essential care to those facing life-limiting illnesses.

 

 

free Christmas events near me




McArthurGlen Designer Outlet East Midlands: Santa's Workshop & Breakfast with Santa

This festive season, enjoy two magical events: Santa's Grotto and Breakfast with Santa at McArthurGlen East Midlands! Visit Santa and share your wish lists and catch a glimpse of his workshop creations. Enhance the experience by booking Breakfast with Santa at 200 Degrees, where kids will receive a gift to make the visit truly unforgettable.

 

  • How much? Santas Grotto:  From £2.50 to £5 per child which includes a gift. Photos with Santa cost extra.

    Breakfast with Santa: £5. Click here to book both events.  

  • When? 22nd November 2024 to 24th December 2024.

  • Where? McArthurGlen East Midlands, Mansfield Road, South Normanton, DE55 2JW.

 

christmas events near me
Photo Credit: McArthurGlen Designer Outlet

Echills Wood Railway: Miniature Steam Trains to Santa

This December, experience the magic of Christmas with a memorable miniature steam train ride to meet Santa and his team of elves at Echills Wood Railway.


What's Included:

  • A festive, extended miniature steam train ride, with a special stop to meet Santa and his elves.

  • An age- and gender-specific gift for every child with a child ticket.

  • A warm festive drink and mince pie for adult ticket holders.

  • A fruit-flavoured drink and mince pie for child ticket holders.

  • Unlimited rides on standard service trains throughout the day.


Although it's not under £10pp, I thought the event looked lovely for the price - especially with what's included. They also have a Bright Lights for Winter Nights event at a similar cost.


  • How much? Tickets per passenger £12.50. Please book early to avoid disappointment. This event is designed for children aged 0-12. When booking, you’ll need to provide each child’s name, age, and gender to help Santa’s elves select the perfect gift. For returning visitors, this ensures children won’t receive the same gift as in previous years. Be sure to also inform them of any dietary requirements for all passengers. Click here to book.

  • When? 7th, 8th, 14th and 15th December.

  • Where? Kingsbury Water Park, Bodymoor Heath Rd, Bodymoor Heath, Sutton Coldfield B76 0DY. Car parking charges at Kingsbury Water Park are not included. The car park operates on a card-only 'pay and display' system.


 


As the holiday season approaches, there are countless opportunities to create lasting memories without breaking the bank. Whether you're creating a new festive tradition or reimagining old ones with a fresh twist, there are endless ways to embrace the spirit and festive atmosphere of the season on a budget.


From festive markets to heartwarming community events, the West Midlands and surrounding areas offer a variety of free and low-cost activities perfect for creating a magical Christmas atmosphere.


If you found this post useful, please:

  • Share this post with friends and family.

  • Tag me (@brummymummydiaries) on social media if you visit any of my recommendations. I love seeing all of your photos! I also have 12 competitions running up until Christmas!


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