christmas trees

The Frankfurt Christmas Market is in popular UK city will be back this weekend and will run for just over seven weeks, offering amazing shopping, twinkling lights and Christmas trees

A UK Christmas market rivalling Germany’s festive celebrations is set to make a comeback this weekend, running for just over seven weeks. Kicking off this Saturday, November 1, Birmingham’s yuletide market promises fantastic shopping, sparkling lights and Christmas trees, along with mouth-watering Frankfurt-style meats.

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market, held in the city’s Victoria Square, will feature over 100 stalls for visitors to explore as the entire area buzzes with “something for everyone”. A hit with locals and tourists alike, the festive market will “tempt your tastebuds” with schnitzels, bratwursts, pretzels, and roasted almonds.

Live music and fabulous Christmas shopping opportunities, with stalls spilling from the square into New Street, are guaranteed to get anyone visiting into the holiday spirit this winter, reports the Express.

The Visit Birmingham website painted a vivid picture of the festive event : “Birmingham comes alive every winter with the arrival of the market, a clear sign that Christmas is just around the corner. The stalls on Victoria Square and along New Street offer something for everyone.

“The largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria, Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market offers a wide range of traditional goods and gifts and a selection of tempting food and drink.”

“Pretzels, schnitzels, bratwursts, and roasted almonds will tempt your tastebuds, all of which can be washed down with gluhwein, weissbier (wheat beer), or tasty hot chocolate.”

Visit Birmingham described the Frankfurt Christmas Market as the ideal spot to gather with loved ones and “enjoy the live music programme on Victoria Square”.

Shoppers are bound to find “presents for your family and friends” in a festive winter setting, with stalls offering “everything from handcrafted wooden decorations and delicate glass baubles to in the form of the ever-favourite crystal lamps, Sounds of Nature, hand-crafted leatherwork, toys, jewellery” and more besides.

During 2024, guests hailed the market as a “joyful winter wonderland” that turns Birmingham into a hub of “festive magic”.

A couple who visited in December 2024 shared their experience on TripAdvisor, noting: “From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by the cosy scent of bratwurst, roasted nuts, and mulled wine. The market stalls are full of festive charm, offering handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and traditional treats that make for perfect stocking fillers or souvenirs.”

They continued: “The food and drink options are a real highlight – expect hearty German fare, rich hot chocolate, sweet churros, and of course, classic glühwein served in collectable mugs.

“Whether you’re visiting with friends, on a romantic winter date, or enjoying a family day out, there’s a warm, communal atmosphere that makes it all the more special.

“The lights, music, and joyful energy throughout the city centre make this more than just a market – it’s a full festive experience. While it can get very busy at peak times, it’s well worth braving the crowds for the atmosphere alone.”

The Frankfurt Birmingham Christmas Market is renowned for its enchanting ambience – and as the “largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria”, previous visitors describe it as a “must-visit” destination.

The venue buzzes with festive cheer and a traditional magical atmosphere that’s “not to be missed”, bringing the “spirit of Christmas to life in the heart of the Midlands”.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to the UK’s overpriced Christmas markets, look no further than the ‘lesser known’ markets in Europe which offer a cosy day out without breaking the bank

Many believe there’s no better way to embrace the festive spirit than with a hot cup of mulled wine while perusing a European Christmas market. However, these events can often be quite pricey.

For instance, a cup of mulled wine at the Berlin Christmas market could set you back five euros, and an additional three if you fancy keeping the mug as a keepsake.

Staying closer to home doesn’t necessarily mean saving money either. It’s well known that UK Christmas markets are among the priciest in Europe.

For example, a visit to the Manchester Christmas markets this year could see you shelling out around £25 for a beer and a bratwurst.

If you’re eager to plan a festive trip but don’t want to break the bank, some of the ‘less popular’ European Christmas markets offer much more affordable prices. Plus, they’re usually less crowded than their UK counterparts, reports the Daily Record.

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In need of some ideas?

The team at Eurochange have done some digging into the best alternative Christmas markets across Europe, including the cheapest flights from the UK and average hotel costs. They’ve also investigated which cities offer the best exchange rates, so you know where your money will go furthest.

Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital and engagement at Eurochange, said: “Our research shows the Christmas market in Wroclaw, Poland, is one of the best in Europe if you’re looking for excellent value for money and a truly authentic experience. Two nights of accommodation for two adults costs just £47, and food and drinks are very affordable. Sibiu in Romania is a close second when it comes to the cheapest Christmas markets in Europe. Here, you can get a mulled wine for just 86p.”

Sibiu, Romania

Laura describes Sibiu as Romania’s leading Christmas market destination, surpassing even Bucharest. The Transylvanian winter celebration, dubbed ‘The Fair In Sibiu’, attracts Romanians in crowds, running from November 14, 2025, through to January 4, 2026.

The town boasts a distinctive blend of Hungarian, Romanian and German influences, creating a cultural richness unmatched elsewhere in Transylvania, according to Laura. Set within the historic old town at Piața Mare, the markets are “beautifully decorated with thousands of fairy lights and festive trinkets”, she noted.

The affordability is particularly striking, she points out. Mulled wine typically ranges from five to 10 leu (merely £0.86).

Visitors should sample regional delicacies, including Kürtőskalács (spit cakes) and cozonac (sweet bread).

Wroclaw, Poland

According to Laura, Wroclaw is considered among Poland’s finest and most stunning Christmas markets. “It is an idyllic, real-life winter wonderland, scattered across the city,” she said.

Situated across Rynek Market Square, Place Solny, Świdnicka Street and Oławska Street, numerous stalls await visitors. Laura notes many vendors offer handcrafted items and delicacies, largely from independent traders.

Laura explains that prices remain highly accessible, with mulled wine available for merely 15 PLN (£3.08) plus a 15 PLN mug deposit. However, if you prefer not to keep the mug, surrounding restaurants and bars offer warming mulled wine for just 9 PLN (£1.85).

Innsbruck, Austria

Laura said: “Nothing will give you the ‘festive feels’ like roaming the streets of Innsbruck in the run-up to Christmas. The aroma of freshly made Kiachln (piping hot doughnuts laced with Sauerkraut) and the sound of Christmas carols are guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit.

“Fairy lights give the medieval alleys a magical glow, and in front of the city’s famous ‘Golden Roof’, you will find the Christmas markets. Visitors can also wander across to Innsbruck’s main shopping street, Maria-Theresien Straße, where there are even more chalets offering tasty snacks and handmade crafts.”

Tallinn, Estonia

“Tallinn Christmas market is a real-life fairytale in the heart of Estonia’s capital”, Laura says. Visitors can sample local delicacies, including black pudding, sour cabbage, gingerbread and warming festive tipples from 1-2 euros, making it amongst the cheapest and most authentic Christmas markets in Europe.

She said: “The real star of the show is the incredible market Christmas tree, which has been set up every year in the Town Hall Square since 1441, making it the first ever Christmas tree to be put on display in Europe.”

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Zagreb, Croatia

Croatia might not be the first destination that springs to mind when thinking of a ‘festive’ location, but Laura claims Zagreb’s Christmas market shouldn’t be overlooked. Also known as ‘Advent Zagreb,’ the city “truly comes to life” during the festive season with an epic Christmas market, a rich programme of music and art exhibitions, and an impressive ice-skating rink in King Tromislav Square.

In Tallinn, Estonia, you will find the most beautiful Christmas market in the world

Last Christmas, Life reporter Christopher Megrath opted to forgo the typical British yuletide markets and venture to a less frequented European destination steeped in history. Christopher is chuffed he did because the Old Town Christmas market in Tallinn, Estonia, was hands down the most stunning one he has ever seen.

Unlike its renowned Christmas market competitors in cities like Vienna, Cologne, or Salzburg, Tallinn’s market is humble in size. He had never heard it brought up in chats about Christmas markets, nor did he know anyone who had even set foot in the country, yet what it lacks in global recognition it more than compensates for with its captivating setting, snug atmosphere and magical allure.

The Tallinn Christmas Market is nestled in the Town Hall Square. At its heart is the Christmas tree, which holds the title of the most significant Christmas tree in Estonia and has been erected in Town Hall Square since 1441, making it the first Christmas tree ever to be showcased in Europe.

The Town Square is relatively compact – you could stroll from one side to the other in a brisk minute. Christopher managed to clock up more than an hour during his visit thanks to the plethora of stalls, live music and scrumptious food on offer.

Just like a scene out of a film, snow gently started to fall and accumulate on the ground throughout the day. The warm glow of lights draped across the square felt snug in an otherwise frosty wonderland, with the 15th-century Town Hall Tower dominating the backdrop of every snapshot, reports the Liverpool Echo.

The Christmas market has everything you could possibly want – handcrafted baubles, sweet delights like chocolate and toffee, tree ornaments and cosy winter wear like hats, scarves and gloves. As per his personal tradition, Christopher made sure to bring back a good assortment of knick-knacks for his foreign holiday memento collection, including a miniature cathedral and town hall for around €20.

You don’t have to go far for some genuine Estonian grub, as Christopher managed to get verivorst (blood sausage) without even leaving the square. Although it’s not something he would recommend, there’s a vast array of truffles, gingerbread and sweets to indulge in if you’re more inclined towards sugary treats.

After several rounds of the market in search of new finds, Christopher found myself settling on the designated sideline benches with a hot cup of glögg – the Estonian term for mulled wine. A stage was erected at the front of the square where children performed and music filled the afternoon, contributing to an already festive atmosphere.

Christopher couldn’t fathom how picture-perfect the Christmas market was until he witnessed it firsthand. The quintessential depiction of the winter experience is brought to life by Tallinn, from the scenic setting to the festive food, drink and goods available.

The gentle snowfall throughout the day felt like it could’ve been a hired actor at this point.

Moreover, once you’ve had your fill of the market, there’s a wealth of attractions in the surrounding area. You’ll find yourself amidst contemporary shopping venues and eateries, ideal for a brief respite or a return to normality.

Winding cobbled streets will guide you uphill to Tallinn’s Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an Eastern Orthodox marvel where visitors can glimpse its breathtaking interior. The UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a plethora of hidden treasures if you’re up for the hunt, such as Maiasmokk, Tallinn’s oldest café dating back to 1864, and Pierre Chocolaterie nestled in the secluded Masters’ Courtyard.

Christopher would suggest simply losing yourself in the labyrinthine streets and secret pathways, allowing them to lead you to ancient castle walls and stunning town vistas.

If you’re on the hunt for a unique Christmas experience that still retains the holiday spirit, a trip to Tallinn’s Old Town Christmas market won’t disappoint.

Return flights to Tallinn from Manchester Airport are available for approximately £217, with a stopover in Helsinki en route. However, during his own visit, Christopher opted to stay in the Finnish capital and took a same-day return ferry to Tallinn for around €40, creating a relatively laid-back excursion that combined two holidays in one.

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, has been named European Christmas Capital 2025 – and it’s easy to see why. The city has a stunning Christmas market and barely any crowds.

If you’re dreaming of a festive getaway complete with Christmas markets and cosy eateries, but can’t bear the thought of battling through crowds, then some destinations are off the table.

For instance, Paris, despite its charm and beauty, welcomed 22 million tourists last year, while Vienna, another popular winter destination, saw an astonishing 19 million visitors.

Over tourism can turn a holiday into a stressful experience, particularly during the festive season when all you want to do is unwind.

However, there’s one stunning European city that remains relatively crowd-free – and it boasts an award-winning Christmas market.

Lithuania’s capital, Vilnius, attracted just 1.2 million tourists last year – a mere fraction compared to Europe’s busiest hotspots.

With the holiday season fast approaching, now is the ideal time to consider a trip to this extraordinary city.

Vilnius has been crowned European Christmas Capital 2025 by the Christmas Cities Network, backed by the European Parliament.

It offers a spectacular Christmas tree, a UNESCO-listed Old Town, and of course, markets brimming with mulled wine and handmade crafts, reports the Express.

The holiday season in Vilnius kicks off on 29 November with its most eagerly awaited tradition, the lighting of the Christmas Tree in Cathedral Square.

Each year, the tree showcases a fresh bold design, drawing people to the city to celebrate with their loved ones.

If you fancy being there for the big switch-on, Skyscanner is currently offering return flights from London to Vilnius starting at just £42 – arriving on 29th November and departing on 1st December.

As for digs, prices kick off from a mere £21 per night, making it an ideal budget-friendly getaway – just remember to save some suitcase space for all those pressies.

Dumb and Dumber is one of the most iconic movies of the 90s, and fans have been left in hysterics after realising there was a clever joke that never made it to the final cut

The hit 1994 comedy film Dumb and Dumber had a lasting impact on a generation, thanks in large part to the brilliant comedic performances of Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels. The film’s massive success saw it open at number one at the box office, raking in almost $250 million worldwide on a modest budget of $17 million, resulting in significant profits.

However, a clever detail from the film has resurfaced on Reddit, leaving many in stitches, reminiscing about their childhoods. In the ‘Movie Details’ thread, a user highlighted a subtle joke that went largely unnoticed in the original cut. Although a deleted scene had initially revealed the joke, it remained a mystery to all but the most astute viewers in the final version.

The Redditor pointed out: “In ‘Dumb and Dumber,’ Lloyd Christmas was in love with Mary Swanson. Had they gotten married and she’d taken his last name, she’d be named Mary Christmas. It’s never mentioned in the movie”.

YardBarker further explained that this was not simply a coincidence, as evidenced by a deleted scene where Harry pieces together the connection, but ultimately, the filmmakers chose not to draw attention to the joke.

When the deleted scene was shared on the Reddit thread, it received some criticism from users who failed to find it amusing.

One commenter wrote: “Wow…I’ve seen a few deleted scenes and am glad they were deleted”.

Another user echoed this sentiment, stating: “I’ve seen an uncut version on TV a long time ago, and was like what the f*** is this? Over the top crude humour. It totally killed the innocent stupidity of the characters”.

One user joked, “So basically the sequel?” while another Reddit user poked fun, saying they act “like that doesn’t exist”.

A fellow user chimed in, “Wise man. I still refuse to see it as well. In some alternate reality, there was a sequel that was true to the original and hilarious. That’s what I tell myself anyway,”.

It appears they’re not alone in their disappointment with the movie’s comedic elements, as it holds a modest 67% on the Tomatometer on Rotten Tomatoes.

However, others shared fond memories of the film, saying they were “obsessed” with it as a kid and had watched it so many times it was “burned into their brain,” finding it “hilarious”.

In the same Reddit thread, someone shared a curious anecdote about encountering someone with a similarly unusual name in real life.

They wrote: “My high school had the graduating class photos from the 1930s on up to current, around the school.

“If I remember correctly in the 70s, there was a girl named Mary Christmas Tree. Her brother had an equally interesting name, but I can’t remember it now”.

A witty remark followed, “All we need to find is the Tree family tree and we will find his name”.