Christmas in Cathedral Square delights in visit from Santa

On Saturday 2 December, there was a very special guest to Christmas in Cathedral Square, as Father Christmas himself paid the market a visit between 11am and 3pm. 

Father Christmas had a jolly time walking around the Square, offering the chance for families to meet him while delivering over 150 gifts of books and craft activities to children, free-of-charge. Organisers Colmore BID also provided a photographer to give all families the opportunity to make unforgettable memories. 

Father Christmas also met the National Express West Midlands competition winner who enjoyed four meals for their family courtesy of Christmas in Cathedral Square market trader Mumbai Grill. 

For the second year, Colmore BID teamed up with the Ladywood Community Project who selected some families to meet Santa and receive gifts, as well as enjoy breakfast courtesy of Dishoom. The Colmore Business District falls within the Ladywood Ward, which is one of the most deprived parts of the city, as well as one of the most disadvantaged wards in the country. Colmore BID works with the Ladywood Community Project to promote the work they do to provide for the local community and to support more families through the cost-of-living crisis. Colmore BID strives to make the District more accessible and to create more opportunities for these families. 

Tim Hall, Board Director at Colmore BID said, “It has been an absolute privilege for Colmore BID to support families and provide them with the chance to meet Father Christmas free of charge this December. We all know that a visit to Santa can be expensive, and the opportunities to do so in Birmingham city centre are very limited. People are struggling with the cost of living at the moment, and there are lots of families who are finding it very difficult, especially at Christmas, so it was wonderful for Colmore BID and Father Christmas to be able to spread some festive cheer. Lots of festive memories were created on the day, and children’s faces lit up as they met Santa and received a gift from him. I’m very proud that Colmore BID was able to provide a wonderful opportunity for children to enjoy a truly magical experience here in the District.”

Christmas in Cathedral Square is organised by Colmore BID with support from Birmingham City Council, Danter Attractions Ltd and Birmingham Cathedral. The festive event took place in the grounds of Birmingham Cathedral and closed on Sunday 17 December 2023, with over 40 stalls offering crafts, food, and drink.