By Kirsty Bosley
Copyright birminghammail
We hate to break it to you, but the festive season is coming up, and it’s coming up fast. You know that in Birmingham , whether we like it or not, Christmas kicks off when the German Market does on November 1. And while that might seem very early, we’ve accepted that we just need to embrace the festive magic and, providing it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, enjoy every day of the two-month-long annual occurence. Read more: Disney making huge return to the Bullring in ‘unique’ and ‘special’ project This year, we’re happy to tell you, there are two things in particular that are set to make Christmas feel even more wonderful. What we’re even happier to tell you? It doesn’t necessarily have to cost a penny for you to enjoy them. The first bit of news (we’re sharing these in order of when they were announced, rather than by importance) is that Selfridges is going to transform into a full festive Disney experience for the season. The Bullring shop is working with Disney to create a ‘festive wonderland filled with stardust’ that you will be able to enjoy even if you’re just browsing and can’t splash out on loads of the exclusive goodies. There will be cool items though, including collaborations with designers and, honestly, the reimagined yellow Selfridges bags complete with Mickey ears look adorable, which by itself makes us consider saving our pocket money. The second wonderful, free thing that’s happening this year is that Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is going to let choirs, Morris dancers and more sprinkle Christmas cheer around the city centre attraction. The free-to-enter museum has booked performers for every Sunday in December, a perfect reason to duck out of the busy throng of the German Market for some wholesome entertainment in our beautiful, shared community space. Again, there are ways you can ramp things up with a bit of cash – Santa is hosting special breakfasts if you wanted to meet-and-greet in the Edwardian Tearooms over a full English, but you don’t have to. If you do though, it’s £17.50 for kids and £20 for adults, with a photo, gift from Father Christmas, food and drinks. Tickets are available here if you fancy it.