Post by tidequeen on Sept 26, 2013 3:18:57 GMT -5
Every year since 2000, the city centre of Birmingham has played host to dozens of stalls in the run-up to Christmas. The stalls constitute the German market, which comes from Birmingham's twin city, Frankfurt. These combine with local stalls, known as 'the Christmas Craft Fair', to create an impressive shopping experience.
The MarketThe market begins in mid-to-late November and ends just before Christmas; it opens from ten o'clock in the morning until nine o'clock at night, although some stallholders will begin packing up early, especially if trade is quiet. That said, an evening visit is recommended, as the bright lights on many of the stalls lend a more Christmassy feel to the whole event. It can get very busy, especially at weekends. This means that making your way around, particularly near the stalls selling alcohol or food, is a case of pushing your way through wherever you can find a gap - but it does add to the atmosphere.
The market is right in the centre of the city1. The German market section extends from New Street up to Victoria Square in front of the Council House. From there through Chamberlain Square even through Cheap NIKE NFL Jerseys China Paradise Forum towards the Repertory Theatre and the National Indoor Arena is the Christmas Craft Fair. In this area, don't be surprised if you hear some Brummie accents - some locals get in on the act as well.
In 2008 there were 2.8 million visitors to the market, providing a boost to the local economy to the tune of 拢67 million. Although it is hardly the only British city to host a German market at Christmas, the Birmingham market has become the biggest German market outside Germany or Austria - the 2009 market saw around 94 stalls. At the end of the last day of the market, it has become traditional Cheap Oakley Sunglass for stallholders to give loose change and unsold food items to local charities.
What's On OfferThe stalls sell a range of items Cheap New Era Hats including jewellery, 'ethnic' goods Cheap NIKE NFL Jerseys China imported from all corners of the world, wooden toys, ceramics, brightly coloured woollen hats and gloves (sure to bring you out of the winter blues), Christmas decorations and many other items. You are sure to find some inspiration for Christmas gifts. The goods tend to be a bit different than those sold in shops, so you may even find something for those awkward older relatives.
Perhaps the most prominent stalls though, as you walk around - especially for those less interested in shopping - are the food and drink stalls. If you prefer to keep one, don't worry, you won't have to steal it. You're allowed to keep them if you like but you will have to forfeit the deposit. www.tidejerseys.com
Children love the brightly-lit helter skelter and carousel in Victoria Square, which they can ride for a small fee.
A Final WordThere is no equivalent Birmingham market in Frankfurt. It's not clear whether one was ever suggested - maybe the natives of the city just don't appreciate a good curry.
1Making it extremely accessible to the many visitors from around the country, especially those travelling by train due to the proximity of New Street Station. www.tidejerseys.com
The MarketThe market begins in mid-to-late November and ends just before Christmas; it opens from ten o'clock in the morning until nine o'clock at night, although some stallholders will begin packing up early, especially if trade is quiet. That said, an evening visit is recommended, as the bright lights on many of the stalls lend a more Christmassy feel to the whole event. It can get very busy, especially at weekends. This means that making your way around, particularly near the stalls selling alcohol or food, is a case of pushing your way through wherever you can find a gap - but it does add to the atmosphere.
The market is right in the centre of the city1. The German market section extends from New Street up to Victoria Square in front of the Council House. From there through Chamberlain Square even through Cheap NIKE NFL Jerseys China Paradise Forum towards the Repertory Theatre and the National Indoor Arena is the Christmas Craft Fair. In this area, don't be surprised if you hear some Brummie accents - some locals get in on the act as well.
In 2008 there were 2.8 million visitors to the market, providing a boost to the local economy to the tune of 拢67 million. Although it is hardly the only British city to host a German market at Christmas, the Birmingham market has become the biggest German market outside Germany or Austria - the 2009 market saw around 94 stalls. At the end of the last day of the market, it has become traditional Cheap Oakley Sunglass for stallholders to give loose change and unsold food items to local charities.
What's On OfferThe stalls sell a range of items Cheap New Era Hats including jewellery, 'ethnic' goods Cheap NIKE NFL Jerseys China imported from all corners of the world, wooden toys, ceramics, brightly coloured woollen hats and gloves (sure to bring you out of the winter blues), Christmas decorations and many other items. You are sure to find some inspiration for Christmas gifts. The goods tend to be a bit different than those sold in shops, so you may even find something for those awkward older relatives.
Perhaps the most prominent stalls though, as you walk around - especially for those less interested in shopping - are the food and drink stalls. If you prefer to keep one, don't worry, you won't have to steal it. You're allowed to keep them if you like but you will have to forfeit the deposit. www.tidejerseys.com
Children love the brightly-lit helter skelter and carousel in Victoria Square, which they can ride for a small fee.
A Final WordThere is no equivalent Birmingham market in Frankfurt. It's not clear whether one was ever suggested - maybe the natives of the city just don't appreciate a good curry.
1Making it extremely accessible to the many visitors from around the country, especially those travelling by train due to the proximity of New Street Station. www.tidejerseys.com