Here at The Roasting Pig, we love winter. As soon as the cold weather hits, our thoughts turn to Christmas, and all the fun events which are on the way. One area of the UK that always delivers is the West Midlands, with Birmingham and Warwickshire hosting some of our favourite seasonal attractions.
If you’re yet to plan out your winter calendar, be sure to take a look at our favourite winter events, scheduled across the West Midlands for 2024.
Big Wheel & Ice Rink, Centenary Square Birmingham
One of Birmingham’s most popular winter attractions is set to return for 2024. Running from 1st November to the 5th of January, this impressive rink boasts 600 square metres of ice, measuring 30m x 30m in length. It’s under cover and brightly lit, so skaters can make the most of their 45 minute slot, without worrying about the weather. After showing off your best moves on the rink, be sure to enjoy the sights of Birmingham on the adjacent Big Wheel.
Frankfurt Christmas Market, City Centre Birmingham
With the claim-to-fame of being the largest authentic German Market outside of Germany and Austria, Birmingham’s Christmas Market is an annual favourite with locals and visitors alike. Stretching along New Street and around Victoria Square, you can browse traditionally made toys, decorations and gifts, as well as enjoying a range of delicious Bavarian delicacies such as schnitzels, bratwurst, pretzels and more. And let’s not forget the gluhwein and Weissbier too!
Christmas at the Castle, Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle is a popular tourist destination open all year round, but at Christmas there’s an extra serving of medieval magic to enjoy. Wander the stunning light trail, skate in the open-air rink, and sample the seasonal treats in the winter food and drink market. But that’s not all, as Old St. Nick himself is visiting too, offering meet-and-greets as well as ‘Stories With Santa’. If you’re staying in the on-site accommodation, you can even request a sleigh-bell wake-up call from your own personal elf.
Polar Express Birmingham
Whether you’re a fan of the book and movie or not, The Polar Express ride is a terrific day out. Running from Birmingham Moor Station, this attraction recreates the sights and sounds of the famous train journey, complete with on-board actors, with the whole event running approximately two hours. Once the train leaves the station, you’ll speed along at up to 60mph on a whistle-stop visit to the North Pole, with cookies and hot chocolate served, and of course a bell from Santa for the children.
Twelfth Night, Stratford Upon Avon
On the calendar, Twelfth Night, also known as Epiphany Eve, falls on the 5th January, and refers to the end of the twelve days of Christmas. Shakespeare’s play of the same name may not be Christmas themed, but it’s still the perfect choice of winter production from the RSC. Running from 5th December to 18th January, there’s plenty of opportunities to catch The Bards popular rom-com (although as Twelfth Night itself falls on a Sunday this year, there’s sadly no performance on the actual date).
As well as the amazing attractions listed above, chances are you’re also organising a festive event or two yourself. Whether you’re putting together a Christmas party, or simply a wintertime wedding or birthday party, be sure to contact The Roasting Pig for the perfect catering experience. Our famous whole roast hog is the perfect winter warmer, while our medieval banquets, authentic pulled pork menu, and stone-baked pizzas are also stunning show-toppers. Our versatile chefs and ovens are suitable for venues of all types, and our prices are kept competitive. For more information about winter event catering in Birmingham, Warwickshire, and surrounding areas, contact us today.