Birmingham Christmas in Cathedral Square & Pigeon in Park pub: opening & closing dates & more

The popular Pigeon in the Park pub and Christmas market are returning to Birmingham city centre for a month of fun, laughter, food, gifts and more.

The award-winning event, which saw the iconic Pigeon in the Park Pub making its debut last year, is featuring a stunning lineup of entertainment in the grounds of Birmingham Cathedral.

The fun begins with the launch event and Christmas tree lights switch on from 6pm to 8pm on Wednesday, November 16 which is open to everyone.

Celebrity chef Glynn Purnell, from Michelin star restaurant Purnell’s will be there, along with panto dame Andrew Ryan, starring in Dick Whittington at Birmingham Hippodrome, and Birmingham City Council Leader Councillor Ian Ward. The Very Reverend Matt Thompson, Dean of Birmingham will also bless the market.

The Cathedral Square Christmas market will be open daily until Sunday December 18 offering a variety of crafts gifts and food and drink stalls.

What street food vendors, stalls and entertainment has been announced so far?

Over the course of the event, visitors to Christmas in Cathedral Square can expect music from local artists and Luxury Live Music, a penguin trail and traditional crafts, ornaments, and gifts from an array of independent Midland businesses. Stalls include Ya Creates, Little Moo Studio and Let it Bee.

There will also be a selection of pop-up food and drink vendors, as well as the return of the infamous Pigeon in the Park pub. Vendors include Purecraft Bar and Kitchen, Vagabond Wines and Hookways.

What have the Christmas in Cathedral Square organisers said about this year’s event?

Christmas in Cathedral Square is delivered in partnership by Colmore BID, Birmingham City Council, Danter Attractions Limited and Birmingham Cathedral,

Leader of Birmingham City Council Cllr Ian Ward said:‘’Every year, Birmingham’s festive events are something that those from the city and beyond look forward to.

“Following a successful year for Birmingham with the 2022 Commonwealth Games, we’re excited to be working with Colmore BID, Danter Attractions Limited and Birmingham Cathedral to host Christmas in Cathedral Square for the second year running.

‘’With a variety of Midland-based independents setting up stalls at the market and local artists performing, this is also a chance to highlight the diversity of our region and celebrate all it has to offer.”

Michele Wilby, CEO of Colmore BID said: ‘’The award-winning Christmas in the Cathedral event is not only a chance for us to support our independent businesses and celebrate local talent, but it’s also a great way for families to come together, socialise and reflect on an amazing year for the city.

‘’We want this month-long event to be something that not only those who work in the District enjoy and look forward to, but also local people and visitors from across the Midlands. We hope to leave all those visiting with joyful memories that they will cherish forever.’

Anna Pitt, CEO of Birmingham Cathedral, further commented:“To welcome visitors into our stunning cathedral and surroundings is a real joy for us, and so we are excited to be hosting Christmas in Cathedral Square again this year.

‘’Birmingham Cathedral is also free for visitors to come inside. During the darker evenings over the winter, our remarkable Burne-Jones windows offer a stunning backdrop from both inside and out.

‘’We will be holding a range of traditional services and inspiring concerts for all to enjoy this Christmas, so we recommend that anyone visiting the market also checks our website for upcoming events.”

What are the opening times for Christmas in Cathedral Square?

Christmas in Cathedral Square is open on Monday – Wednesday from 11am-8pm, Thursday – Saturday from 11am-9pm and Sunday from 12pm-8pm.

The market will run from 16 November – 18 December 2022. For more information, and to download the Christmas in Cathedral Square map visit: Colmore BID Christmas Market.